adminahead of their game against Mashonaland Eagles today following the return of national team pace bowler Christopher Mpofu who has been out following an injury.
The two teams clash at Queens Sports Club.
Mpofu missed Tuskers’ five wicket Pro-50 One-Day win over Southern Rocks last weekend and his availability for today’s must-win match against Eagles has further strengthened their bowling attack.
Also making a return into the 13-member squad announced by Tuskers’ gaffer Heath Streak yesterday is spin bowler John Nyumbu.
“There are no major changes to the team that played Southern Rocks except that Chris (Mpofu) and John Nyumbu will be back in the team. We will announce our starting team in the morning before the game starts,” Streak said.
Tuskers need an outright win today to secure a place in the Pro-50 One-Day Cup final.
The Bulawayo cricket team is third on the One-Day competition log with 17 points from six matches while their opponents today are second with 19 points from seven games.
Today’s encounter is Eagles’ last group match and should they lose, they would be out of the competition.
Tuskers still have an outstanding game against log leaders Rhinos who are on 21 points from six outings.
Streak called on Bulawayo cricket enthusiasts to come in their numbers and rally behind Tuskers since the game is one of their most important on the calendar.
“This is a big game not only for us but for Bulawayo. We just have to win this encounter so that we secure a place in the final.
“The guys are really looking forward to the game and I am confident that they are going to do their best and get a positive result,” said the former national team captain.
Tuskers’ top order batsman Brian Chari who top scored with 54 runs in their game against Southern Rocks, is expected to continue from where he left.
Some of the batsmen expected to carry the day for Tuskers include skipper Gavin Ewing, Terrence Duffin, Graig Ervine, Sean Williams and Keith Dabengwa.
Mpofu is expected to lead the bowling attack which has Glen Querl, Njabulo Ncube, Nyumbu, Ewing and Dabengwa.
Tuskers Squad
Gavin Ewing, Terrence Duffin, Brian Chari, Graig Ervine, Sean Ervine, Sean Williams, Charles Coventry, Keegan Meth, Keith Dabengwa, Njabulo Ncube, Glen Querl, Christopher Mpofu, John Nyumbu.
Online Reporter