adminThere were fears that after heavy rains pounded Bulawayo on Tuesday, the wickets could have been affected leaving what could be a mouthwatering final hanging in balance.
The Meteorological Services Department has forecast that wet weather conditions are expected to persist in all parts of the country up to next week.
In an interview at Queens Sports Club yesterday, Shanganya said the facility had 10 wickets and two of those are ready to handle the final.
“Today we just had light showers and because of our perfect drainage system, we did not have any waterlogging after Tuesday’s rains. The centre wicket which is the most preferred is a little bit wet but we are working on it and I can assure you that if we do not get heavy rains in the next two days it will be ready for the final.
“We also have the outside wicket which is dry and has not been used that much but it is in good shape. This dry wicket is our other option for the final. We are definitely going to have cricket played on Saturday, but we cannot control nature,” said Shanganya.
Matabeleland Tuskers team missed Tuesday’s training session due to the heavy downpour and yesterday they only worked on fielding as the groundsmen were working on the wickets and the nets were also not ready for use.
Last weekend’s matches were washed off in Kwekwe and Triangle. The encounter between Southern Rocks and Mountaineers was abandoned without a ball being sent down at Triangle Sports Club.
At Kwekwe Sports Club, the contest between Rhinos and Matabeleland Tuskers did get underway after a rain delay but only 11.2 overs were bowled with Tuskers on 53 for the loss of two wickets before rains forced the match to be called off.
Matabeleland Tuskers who have won the last two editions of the most coveted domestic silverware, the Castle Lager Logan Cup are hoping to add the Pro-50 cup to their cabinet.
Matabeleland Tuskers will be playing in their first final of the limited overs since the start of franchise cricket in 2009.
Stanley Staddon, the Matabeleland Tuskers chief executive officer said they were waiting for Harare to communicate on what decision should be made in the event of rains.
“Right now we have a tight schedule that we cannot afford to postpone the fixture. We are just praying that heavens don’t open up on Saturday so that we play.
“In the unfortunate event of the rains disrupting play, I think by virtue of being on top of the log we will be crowned champions. However, that decision will have to come from Harare,” said Staddon.
Online Reporter