Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi
Zimpapers Sports Hub
SIKANDAR RAZA says the Chevrons are fired up to settle old scores when they face Afghanistan in a three match T20I series starting today at Harare Sports Club.
Zimbabwe are chasing revenge after years of torment from the Afghans, who’ve beaten them 16 times in 18 T20 meetings.
But Raza believes the tide is turning.
“The mood in camp is bubbly and lively,” he said. “Zimbabwe’s coming off some beautiful results. Everyone’s clear on their roles and contributing. If we do our basics right, this will be an exciting series.”
The Chevrons are buzzing after crushing Afghanistan in last week’s Test and sweeping through the T20 Africa World Cup qualifiers.
Veteran spinner Graeme Cremer makes a dramatic return after seven years out, replacing Trevor Gwandu, while star seamers Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava lead the attack.
“Cremer brings massive experience and insight. He’s great to have in the changing room,” said Raza.
With the T20 World Cup just months away, Zimbabwe are using this series to fine tune combinations, and confidence is sky high.
Afghanistan, led by returning skipper Rashid Khan, remain dangerous despite a recent 3-0 hiding by Bangladesh. “Winning builds confidence, and that’s what we’re chasing,” said Afghan coach Jonathan Trott.
Zimbabwe Squad
Sikandar Raza (captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Brad Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor.
Afghanistan Squad
Ibrahim Zadran, Rashid Khan (capt), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Shahidullah Kamal, Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Bashir Ahmad, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Abdullah Ahmadzai.
Mathew Masinge