Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Chevrons captain Richard Ngarava has dedicated the Chevrons’ One-Day International series victory over Bangladesh to the country’s cricket supporters, saying the team’s back-to-back home series wins were achieved for the fans.
Zimbabwe claimed the three-match ODI series 2-1 after winning the opening two encounters before losing the final match at Harare Sports Club.
The success followed the Chevrons’ Test series triumph over Bangladesh, capping a memorable home campaign.
Speaking after the final ODI on Saturday, Ngarava said the team had drawn inspiration from the supporters who turned out in large numbers throughout the series.
“I feel happy about how things went. Winning two series at home is quite special. We haven’t done this for the changing room, but we have done it for the fans who are out there making an effort to come and watch us play,” said Ngarava.
Chevrons’ hopes of completing a clean sweep ended after they were dismissed for 199, but Ngarava maintained the total was defendable despite costly dropped catches in the field.
“Two hundred was quite defendable. No one wants to drop a catch on any particular day, but we walked off knowing we had put in the effort we wanted.
“We still believed we could defend that score, but that’s cricket, you win some, you lose some.”
Ngarava praised Player of the Series Bradley Evans for his all-round development, crediting Zimbabwe’s coaching staff for the improvement shown by the lower-order batters.
“There has been a lot of work from the coaching staff, not only with Brad but with everyone. I also have to commend Stuart Matsikenyeri for the work he puts into the lower-order batters. I’m happy the results are beginning to show.”
With the T20 International series against Bangladesh next on the calendar, Ngarava said they would carry the same positive mindset into the shorter format.
“For me, it’s the mindset and mentality of how the guys are turning up and wanting to change the game regardless of the situation we’re in.”
The left-arm seamer also brushed aside suggestions that Zimbabwe had surprised observers with their ability to defend modest totals during the ODI series.
“People are always going to talk about whether we can bat first or bat second, but if we prepare well and stick to our processes, we will always back ourselves to produce good results.”
Ngarava, who missed the final ODI through injury, said he expects to be fit for the upcoming T20 series.
“Of course I’m going to be fit. All the players are fit. We also want to build a bigger pool of players to choose from.”
He also explained that his decision to change his jersey number from 39 to seven was inspired by his Christian faith.
“I believe in the Bible and I believe in God. Seven is the number of completion.
“It was quite nice to see everyone working together. That’s what you want to see in Zimbabwe cricket. To all the fans, come in your numbers. We’ll do our very best to keep you smiling.”
