Eagles seek Pro50 success

Good weather conditions permitting, this is a match that promises value for money.
Eagles want to end a good season with something to show in their trophy cabinet.
Rhinos, who have featured in more finals than any other team in the last three years, want to exorcise the winless jinx by grabbing their first trophy.
But it is Eagles, who will enjoy the privilege of playing in home conditions, who go into this tussle as favourites.
Kevin Curran’s men have enjoyed their show this season to finish comfortably on top of the table in the limited overs competition.
Curran believes they will face their biggest moment this afternoon as they have missed the opportunity to win the title in the other two competitions where they were runners-up.
“If you look at the statistics we were by far the most consistent team and we finished well ahead of the other competitors,” said Curran.
“It will be very disappointing that, after playing good cricket the whole year, we falter in our last game.
“The game plan doesn’t have to change a lot. What is important is to do the basics right and get good scores.”
The Harare side had an outstanding season in which they won six of their eight round-robin matches, including back-to-back victories over Rhinos.
Eagles have been boosted by the return of five players from the national team as they are set to welcome their captain Stuart Matsikenyeri, Forster Mtizwa, Regis Chakabva, Ray Price and Elton Chigumbura.
They also have in their fold exciting young players like Lovemore Manatsa, Tino Mutombodzi and up-and-coming all-rounder Nathan Waller.
Innocent Chinyoka has also recovered and is expected to lead the bowling attack.
“We have improved a lot in our bowling and fielding, but it’s a tough call.
“Rhinos have good players like Gary Ballance who is currently the best batsman, with over a thousand runs in Logan cup and more in the Pro50.
“They also have Vusi (Sibanda) and Malcom Waller who is returning from the national team.
“We need to put pressure on them and get everything right.”
Rhinos have featured in four of the last five finals in all versions of the game but they somehow have found the silverware elusive.
They are pinning their hopes on the top order duo of Ballance and Sibanda while Mike Chinouya and Edward Rainsford could lead the attack.
Graeme Cremer and hard-hitter Waller have returned from national team duty.
But the Kwekwe-based franchise will get another shot at the domestic title without their captain Brendan Taylor who is in Bangladesh for club cricket with Chittagong Knights.
Their overseas player Rikki Wessels is also unavailable for this game while Eagles will miss Kyle Jarvis who has signed to play in New Zealand.