ZIM A TURN ATTENTION TO LONGER FORMAT

Blessing Malinganiza

Zimpapers Sports Hub

ZIMBABWE A have turned their attention to the longer format after concluding the limited-overs leg of their cricket tour of Bangladesh, with two four-day matches against Bangladesh Emerging lined up in Sylhet.

The first match will run from June 17-20, with the second scheduled for June 24-27 as Zimbabwe continue their efforts to strengthen the pipeline to the Chevrons.

Zimbabwe will head into the first-class phase with a reshaped squad after Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani and Innocent Kaia returned home following the completion of the one-day series.

Joining the side are Johnathan Campbell, Dion Myers, Munashe Chimusoro and Tanu Makoni, adding fresh options for the red-ball assignment.

Zimbabwe Cricket said the switch reflects the importance attached to exposing a wider group of players to different formats and conditions.

“We have completed the white-ball phase and now the focus shifts to the red-ball challenge in Sylhet.

“It is another opportunity for the players to test themselves in foreign conditions and continue their development,” ZC said in a statement.

The governing body said there were plenty of positives to take from the one-day matches despite the challenges encountered during the series.

“There is plenty to build on from the limited-overs leg.

“The players showed character and commitment and we are looking forward to seeing how they adapt to the demands of first-class cricket.”

The four-day matches are expected to provide an important platform for players pushing for national team honours, especially with Bangladesh’s senior side due to tour Zimbabwe later this month.

Johnathan Campbell and Dion Myers are among the players expected to shoulder responsibility with both bat and ball, while newcomers Munashe Chimusoro and Tanu Makoni will be looking to make the most of their opportunity.

The red-ball series is also expected to provide selectors with a clearer picture of the country’s depth in the longer format as Zimbabwe continue preparations for a demanding international schedule.

After completing the limited-overs leg, Zimbabwe Cricket struck an optimistic tone ahead of the challenge in Sylhet.

The first four-day encounter gets underway on Wednesday in Sylhet.