Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
INNOCENT KAIA wants to make his latest Chevrons opportunity count as he pushes for his first T20I appearance in more than two years at the FNB T20 Tri-Series in Windhoek.
The opening batter last played a T20I against India at Harare Sports Club on July 7, 2024. He returned to the squad as an injury replacement for Milton Shumba during last month’s series against India but did not make the playing XI.
Earlier this year, Kaia scored seven centuries in 11 innings for Southern Rocks, Zimbabwe A and the Chevrons, including 140 against Bangladesh in the one-off Test at Harare Sports Club in June.
Kaia said his focus in Windhoek was on contributing to the team.
“For me, it is about doing my job for the team. I want to contribute with the bat, put the team in good positions and help us win games.
“Individual performances are important, but the main thing is what we achieve as a team.”
The tournament runs from August 28 to September 6, with the three sides playing each other twice before the top two meet in the final.
Zimbabwe open their campaign against South Africa on August 29 and face Namibia two days later.
“It is a good opportunity for us as a team to play against two good sides,” Kaia said.
“South Africa have quality players, and Namibia are a very competitive team, so we know we have to be at our best in every game.”
Kaia believes consistency will be crucial.
“The important thing for us is to take one game at a time. We cannot look too far ahead because every match is important.
“If we can put together good performances in the group stages, then hopefully we can give ourselves a chance of reaching the final.”
He also believes facing strong opposition will help Zimbabwe sharpen their T20 game.
“These are the kinds of games you want to play because they challenge you as a player.
“You have to make good decisions quickly, whether you are batting or in the field, and that can only help us improve.”
The tri-series also brings together the three hosts of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and is expected to lay the foundation for a proposed Africa Cup.
“It is good for African cricket to have more competitions like this. We are playing against teams from our region regularly, and that helps everyone grow.
“But once we get onto the field, our focus will be on winning and representing Zimbabwe well.”
Kaia insists the Chevrons are not travelling to Windhoek merely to participate.
“We are going there to compete. We respect both teams, but we also believe in ourselves.
“We want to play positive cricket, stay disciplined, and give ourselves the best chance of winning the tournament.”
