Online ReporterBrandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
South Africa’s men’s cricket coach Shukri Conrad has vowed his team will show Zimbabwe complete respect as the two nations prepare to clash in a landmark two-match Test series starting at Queens Sports Club on Saturday.
Fresh from leading the Proteas to their historic World Test Championship (WTC) triumph two weeks ago, Conrad warned against underestimating the Chevrons on home soil. He emphasized Zimbabwe’s familiarity with local conditions and their extensive Test match experience this year.
The South African coach stressed his world champions must maintain their high standards regardless of opposition.
“Zimbabwe perform strongly at home – they understand these conditions perfectly,” Conrad told Zimpapers Sports Hub. “While we have some inexperienced players, complacency won’t be a factor. After winning the WTC, we’re determined to maintain our standards irrespective of who we’re playing.”
The Proteas arrived in Bulawayo on Tuesday and immediately began preparations, holding their first training session on Wednesday morning. Conrad anticipates a fiercely competitive series against Zimbabwe’s battle-hardened squad.
“We respect Zimbabwe immensely – they’re a quality side who’ve played considerable Test cricket recently. This promises to be an extremely exciting contest,” he added.
The opening Test marks Zimbabwe’s return to elite red-ball cricket against their southern African neighbors, with both teams eager to make an early statement in the new WTC cycle.
derick.khumalo