Online ReporterBlessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Chevrons walk into today’s tri-series opener against hosts Pakistan with one clear agenda – a belief that they can win this match.
And, they are not shy about saying that.
Assistant Coach Dion Ebrahim set the tone hours before the first ball was bowled.
The former national team batsman spoke with the certainty of a man who feels his group has finally found its rhythm.
“We’re looking to win,” he said.
“We have come to this tri-series with the ambition to win and to compete in every game.
“This is about taking two steps forward in our preparations for the World Cup, and that starts by trying to win this tournament.”
He described a side that’s settled and confident.
“We have been a group for over a year now, our team is ready and really excited for the challenges ahead.”
Zimbabwe’s knowledge of Pakistani conditions could prove decisive under lights. Ebrahim said the input from Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani and Brendan Taylor, who all have Pakistan Super League experience, has been “invaluable” in shaping their plans.
Asked how they intend to handle the opposition’s star names, Ebrahim pushed back against the idea of preparing for just one area of danger.
“In T20 cricket, it’s too fickle to focus on one player. If your attention goes to one player, you lose sight of the unfolding game.
“We highly respect world-class players, but we have plans and strategies for everyone.”
He spoke with pride when he turned to his seamers, a unit he believes gives Zimbabwe genuine bite.
“We have got quite a diverse seam attack with points of difference in height, angles, and skill sets.
“It’s a very dynamic and broad bowling balance.
“We’re excited to have a world-class bowler like Richard Ngarava, along with a couple of young, explosive, dynamic athletes.
“We’re very excited to showcase these skills.”
He knows it would have been better if Muzarabani had not been injured and was part of this group.
Ebrahim also reflected on how his journey from player to coach fuels his drive to push the team forward.
“The ambition and passion to ensure we keep moving forward and striving for excellence is abundant in us,” he said.
