Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Under-19 cricket team coach Elton Chigumbura has pointed out fielding as an area that needs improvement.
This follows the team’s recent performances in the tri-series against South Africa and Bangladesh.
Despite showcasing promising cricket in patches, the team’s inability to seize crucial moments has proved costly.
The U19 team played several matches, including a loss to South Africa U19 by 107 runs.
They also faced Bangladesh U19 in a closely contested match.
The team’s upcoming fixture against Bangladesh U19 on Friday, at Harare Sports Club, will be a crucial test of their resolve and ability to bounce back from recent setbacks.
After the tri-series, Zimbabwe U19 will host Ireland U19 for a five-match Youth One-Day International (YODI) series in Harare.
This series will provide further preparation for the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026, which Zimbabwe will co-host with Namibia.
The series against Ireland will be a valuable opportunity for the team to fine-tune their skills and strategies ahead of the World Cup.
“We have played well in patches, but the biggest letdown has been on our fielding.
“We have let down so many chances since game one, and it has cost us a lot in chasing high scores,” Chigumbura said.
He emphasized that the exposure gained from playing against quality opposition will be invaluable for the players’ growth and World Cup preparations.
“The is great for the players to know where they are and what we need to do as a team to play good cricket and win matches, especially before the World Cup.”
For the match against Bangladesh, the team will look to bounce back from their recent losses and make a strong impression in the tournament.
Chigumbura remains optimistic about the team’s prospects.
“We will improve on what we have done so far; it’s just a matter of putting everything that we have been doing well under one match.”
With focused effort and determination, Zimbabwe U19 aims to turn their performances around and make a strong showing in the remaining matches of the tri-series.
