Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S preparations for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup take a real step forward this afternoon when the Chevrons open their T20I Tri-Series campaign against hosts Pakistan in Rawalpindi. Assistant and batting coach Dion Ebrahim said the series, which also features Sri Lanka, gives the team a proper stage to measure their progress and sharpen their plans ahead of next year’s global tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
Zimbabwe were roped in late after Afghanistan withdrew due to political tensions with Pakistan, but Ebrahim said the side never felt underdone. He said the group has been playing enough high-level cricket to walk straight into the contest with confidence.
“We have been working together for over a year now, so whether a tournament or a campaign came in the last month or so, we were always ready. We have been playing competitive cricket, we have been playing international cricket, and players are versed in terms of what’s needed. Where we play is just a fixture and a scorecard.”
The message in camp is clear. Zimbabwe are not in Pakistan to make up the numbers.
“We are looking to win. We have come into this Tri-Series with an ambition to win, to compete in every game. We have been together for over a year now and it’s trying to put two steps forward in terms of our preparation leading to the World Cup and it starts by trying to win this tournament. This is a great opportunity for us to take two steps forward in terms of our preparation for the World Cup but also showcase where we belong as a cricketing nation. We hope that we play a brand of cricket that is appealing and exciting for fans to support us,” said Ebrahim.
Several players in the squad have turned out in the Pakistan Super League, and Ebrahim believes that familiarity with local conditions will help steady the team’s approach under lights and in a different climate.
“The team is very excited to be here, very excited to take part in the Tri-Series. For a number of young guys, it’s their first time coming over to Pakistan; we have had a group of players for close to a year. The team is ready and really excited for the challenges ahead.
“Experience is huge in these conditions, it’s slightly different, not only the nature of the climate but the fact that we are playing under lights. These experiences that those three have got from the PSL are going to be invaluable because it’s the little insights, the valuable pieces of information that you can receive before going through the experience rather than having to go through a game and then learn from those experiences,” he said.
He added that Zimbabwe’s game plan won’t revolve around targeting individual players, stressing instead a wider tactical focus. He singled out the depth and variety in the seam attack, led by Richard Ngarava, as a key strength.
“In T20 cricket, it’s too fickle to focus on one player. If your attention goes to one player, you lose sight of an unfolding game in front of you. Those names are world-class players; we highly respect our opposition, and we have plans for all players.
“We have a diverse seam attack, we have a point of difference, whether with height, angles, or skill set. It’s a dynamic, broad bowling balance that we are bringing. We are excited. We have Richard Ngarava, who is world-class; he has shown time and time again that he is up there with the best. Then we have young, explosive, dynamic athletes as well.
We are very excited to showcase their skills,” said Ebrahim.
The match starts at 3PM. — @brandon_malvin
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