Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
CHEVRONS coach Justin Sammons has backed Richard Ngarava to develop into an influential leader, describing the fast bowler as someone who leads through commitment and example.
Ngarava has enjoyed a memorable period in national colours, recently captaining Zimbabwe in Test cricket. He continued to play a key role as the Chevrons carried their momentum into the One Day International series against Bangladesh.
Zimbabwe won the opening ODI on Monday and will be looking to seal the series when they face Bangladesh in the second match tomorrow.
Sammons believes Ngarava’s leadership qualities are built around his work ethic, passion for the country and ability to earn respect from teammates. “Richie is somebody who leads through his actions. He worked extremely hard after his injury at the World Cup to get himself ready and be back on the park,” Sammons said.
“He is not someone who just talks the talk, he wants to walk the walk and give absolutely everything for the team.
“He is very passionate about Zimbabwe cricket.
“Quietly, I think he is going to be a brilliant man-manager because he is genuine and authentic. The players will want to play for him.”
While Ngarava continues to grow into the leadership responsibility, Sammons believes the presence of experienced players around him has helped create a strong environment.
Former Test captain Craig Ervine and T20 skipper Sikandar Raza remain important voices within the dressing room.
“The senior players have been fantastic in supporting him. Just because Craig is no longer captain does not mean he is no longer a leader in the team.
“He still plays a huge role. Raza, who captains the T20 side, is also there alongside him, and the experienced guys have been extremely supportive in a calm way,” said Sammons.
The Zimbabwe coach also believes the team’s recent improvement has come from lessons learnt during difficult moments last year.
The Chevrons endured frustrating periods where they failed to take advantage of strong positions, but Sammons feels the side has developed a ruthless edge.
“We went through some tough days last year. It was a steep learning curve, but the fact that we have played a lot of cricket means we are gaining experience. In the Test match last year, we got ourselves into strong positions but we were not ruthless enough to finish things off. “Over the last two Tests we have shown that ruthlessness and that comes from being in those situations, learning from them and getting better,” he said.
With confidence growing in the squad, Sammons believes Zimbabwe must continue building consistency as they target a winning culture.
“Winning is a habit, and belief is very important.
“You have to believe that you can do it and that you can get over the line. But cricket is cricket, the opposition is also trying to win, and we know we will continue facing strong teams,” he said.
