Online Reporter
Tinashe Kusema
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE are 20 overs away from the ICC T20 World Cup Super Eight and the mood in the camp is clear – FINISH THE JOB.
The Chevrons take on Ireland this morning at Pallekele knowing victory will seal their place in the next round.
It will crown a campaign that has already turned heads after that famous win over Australia.
After years of near misses and rebuilding, Zimbabwe now stand within touching distance of the knockout phase with their destiny firmly in their own hands.
Sri Lanka’s win over Australia yesterday cleared the path even further and left the equation simple – beat Ireland and the celebrations can begin.
At the heart of Zimbabwe’s charge has been the deadly combination of Blessing Muzarabani and Brian Bennett, two players who have set the tone with ball and bat.
Muzarabani has led the attack with six wickets in two games, bowling with menace and control.
Bennett has shown nerves of steel with unbeaten scores of 48 and 69 that guided Zimbabwe through tense moments against Oman and Australia.
Head coach Justin Sammons says the secret now is simple.
Do not change what is working.
“Blessing and Brian have been outstanding for us and we want more of the same,” said Sammons.
“With Blessing, he has been our key bowler for a long time and he keeps delivering.
“Brian brings real calmness for such a young player and nothing seems to faze him.”
Zimbabwe’s win over Australia was built on discipline with the bat, sharp running between the wickets and relentless energy in the field, qualities Sammons wants repeated today.
“It was always going to be a tough group and beating Australia goes a long way,” he said.
“Progression is still in our hands and that’s what we want. The guys have stuck to what works for us and now we must keep doing the same things.”
Sri Lanka lead Group B with six points while Zimbabwe sit second on four.
Australia and Ireland are level on two points and Oman have already been knocked out.
Zimbabwe still have another match against Sri Lanka later this week, but a win today would remove all doubt and send the Chevrons through in style.
Defeat would drag the race into the final round and bring net run rate into play, but inside the Zimbabwe camp the focus is firmly on one mission – BEAT IRELAND.
