Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe men’s national cricket team, the Chevrons, are facing a must-win situation as they take on Sri Lanka in the second T20I match at Harare Sports Club. Trailing 1-0 in the three-match series, a victory today is essential to keep their hopes of a series win alive.
Harare Sports Club is not just hosting another game; it’s making history. Today’s match marks the 290th international game played at the venue, pushing it past the Melbourne Cricket Ground (288) to become the third-most-used international cricket venue in the world. After this match, it will be just three games shy of equalling the Sydney Cricket Ground’s record of 293. The top spot is held by Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the UAE with 309 games.
Chevrons’ head coach Justin Sammons is focused on his team’s performance, not just the result. He’s urged his players to maintain the positive and competitive brand of cricket they’ve shown in recent matches.
“I hope more of the same, to be honest. Again, we are getting into those positions against a really good team, so I hope we can continue along the same vein in playing competitive cricket and giving ourselves a chance to win. It will be great if we do get over the line, but the first step will be to stick to the process that we are trying to follow. It gives us a chance, and we will take it from there,” Sammons said.
He believes that competing well against a top side like Sri Lanka is crucial for building the team’s confidence ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers. The coach emphasised the importance of cohesion and clear communication among the players.
“Communication is something that we are trying to drive as a team, whether it’s batting or in the field. We want bowlers to take responsibility for their field, their plans, what balls they are looking to bowl . . . The team is cohesive, they are fighting for each other, and it’s just those small moments that are costing us,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of the fans, noting that playing good cricket is the best way to earn their support.
“It’s important for the team to have the fans behind them and I think the more good cricket we play, we will bring those fans back and get their support . . . The timing is important; belief is a massive thing going into the Qualifiers and if this series gives us anything, it should be that confidence and belief that we can compete with the best. There has to be belief and confidence that comes from taking Sri Lanka to the wire, and hopefully, that carries on,” he said.
