Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza-Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE are the only side yet to pick up points in the ongoing T20I Tri-Series and they are aiming to undo that in style by upsetting New Zealand in their second match set for Harare Sports Club this afternoon.
The hosts lost to neighbours South Africa by five wickets in the series opener on Monday.
New Zealand got their campaign off to a winning start when they beat the Proteas by 21 runs in an entertaining duel on Wednesday.
However, the only way Zimbabwe can boost their chances of remaining alive in the series is by collecting maximum points.
Hence, they know they cannot afford to lose again when they face the high-riding Black Caps at Harare Sports Club.
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza, who led from the front with the bat in the five-wicket defeat to South Africa with an unbeaten 54, knows the mammoth task the team faces but dares to believe.
“We are very happy that both countries have brought really strong squads. It will be good for our own development and for learning as well. Everything that we’re doing now is getting us ready for the qualifiers (ICC Africa T20I World Cup Qualifier),” said Raza.
“So, you know this opportunity that we’re going to get from South Africa and New Zealand is certainly what’s needed at the start of a very busy winter/summer that’s ahead of us.
“Guys have done what was asked of them. Good energy. I think what’s really required right now, and the biggest challenge as a captain, is to try and bring the best out of playing cricket as well.” New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is not taking the Chevrons lightly, particularly in their home conditions.
“We’ve obviously seen how good they are, so it’s big for them, and I think they will treat this series as a good chance to beat us and South Africa and put themselves in good stead going forward for major events.”
New Zealand lead the standings by virtue of a superior 1.050 net run rate against South Africa’s 0.355. Both sides are tied on two points with a win apiece.
Zimbabwe are yet to get off the mark on the points table.
