Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi-Senior Sports Reporter
THE Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Anselem Sanyatwe, yesterday described the national cricket team’s win over Australia at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as a moment of pride and a strong statement about Zimbabwe’s high standing in international sport.
Sanyatwe praised the Chevrons’ fighting spirit after their 23-run victory over the former world champions at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Zimbabwe went into the match as underdogs but produced an assured all-round performance to record one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Chevrons for their historic victory against Australia,” Sanyatwe wrote on X.
Sanyatwe praised the Chevrons’ fighting spirit after their 23-run victory over the former world champions at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
“This triumph is more than just a win on the field. It is a powerful symbol of Zimbabwe’s growing stature in international sport.
“The victory shows that our athletes have the talent, resilience and determination to compete at the highest level. It is a moment of pride for our nation and an inspiration for the next generation of sportsmen and women.
“Blessing Muzarabani keep on blazing!”
Fast bowler Muzarabani produced a match-winning spell, taking four wickets for 17 runs, his best T20I figures. Brad Evans supported him with three wickets for 23 runs, while Wellington Masakadza and Ryan Burl chipped in with a wicket each as Australia were bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs.
Zimbabwe had earlier set the tone by posting 169 for two after choosing to bat first.
The Chevrons now have two wins from two matches after opening their Group B campaign with an eight-wicket victory over Oman. Their hopes of reaching the Super Eight remain firmly alive ahead of the remaining fixtures against Ireland and hosts Sri Lanka next week.
The squad will travel from Colombo to Kandy for Tuesday’s clash with Ireland at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium before returning to Colombo to complete the group stage against Sri Lanka two days later.
Twenty teams are competing across four groups, with the top two from each progressing to the Super Eight. Zimbabwe are in Group B alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and Sri Lanka.
The Chevrons missed qualification for the previous T20 World Cup held in the United States and West Indies and are determined to re-establish themselves among the leading nations. At their last appearance in 2022, they reached the Super 12 stage.
Zimbabwe Cricket have also benefited from strong Government backing in recent years, including support for development programmes and guarantees for hosting major international tournaments for both the men’s and women’s game.
