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Eddie Chikamhi Harare Bureau
FORMER Zimbabwe top order batsman Stuart Matsikenyeri is relishing the opportunity to prove himself after being selected in the Zimbabwe A squad to play Canada next week. The teams are set to clash in four One Day Internationals set to begin on Tuesday as part of the overall ICC World Cup 2015 preparations.
The games will afford Zimbabwe’s new coach, Dav Whatmore, a glimpse of some of the candidates for the World Cup squad which must be named by Wednesday.
Whatmore is expected to conduct his first training session with the senior team today while the Zimbabwe A coach Shepherd Makunura will continue with his side’s preparations at Harare Sports Club.
Matsikenyeri is looking forward to a return to the national team fold following his last dance with the Chevrons in 2012.
The 31-year-old batsman has made a strong case as he currently leads the Pro50 table as the highest run scorer with 167 runs in three matches, which earned him a place in the Zimbabwe A side.
The selectors have included other experienced players like Chamu Chibhabha, Brian Vitori, Timycen Maruma and skipper Prosper Utseya and the competition for places looks stiff.
“Obviously, it’s something that the selectors look at. But from a player’s perspective it’s (competition) part of normal life.
“We compete for places day-in day-out, so nothing changes really. Each individual is going out there to play but firstly they play for their country. We’ve been picked for the A side but at the end of the day you’re wearing the national emblem so that comes first and should your personal performances come through with it, then that’s fantastic.
“Personally, I think I’ve had a very good season and I’m among the top run scorers in the domestic season but nothing is given.
“At the end of the day it’s up to the selectors to see what balance they want but I think I’m putting up a strong case so far,” said Matsikenyeri.
The selectors have thrown into the fray a host of young players like Brian Chari, Luke Jongwe, PJ Moor, Cuthbert Musoko, Charles Kunje, Tino Mutombodzi, Wellington Masakadza and Kudzai Maunze.
The team regrouped last Sunday but their preparations have been hampered by incessant rains this week.
The former Zimbabwe Test player, however, said they were looking forward to some good performances.
“Every game that we’re going to play is extremely important hence you see the guys working really hard to prepare the best we can for this tour.
“It’s important for the country and individuals as well. So we’re giving it all we got.
“We were a little bit unfortunate with the weather which deterred preparations but fortunately we’ve some all-weather wickets where we can come and have a hit.
“Otherwise our bowlers weren’t able to do as much as they would’ve liked but the guys are coming from a decent season, so we should be okay.
“We’ve a good crop of young players coming through. There’s young off-spinner from Mountaineers, (Tapiwa) Mufudza, and Ryan Burl.
“It’ll be good to pass down the experiences and information and possibly creating and finding a culture for us that we can play our own games and win,” said Matsikenyeri.
Zimbabwe A and Canada will play their first game on Tuesday and the last match has been slated for January 12.
The side will be coached by Makunura.
Online Reporter