Online Reporter
By Brandon Moyo
ZIMBABWE’S cricket heroes Andy Flower and Blessing Muzarabani are just one step away from making history as their Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) side gears up for an India Premier League final showdown against Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on Tuesday evening.
Veteran coach Flower, who took over the RCB reins after a disastrous 2023 campaign, has masterminded a remarkable turnaround. Last season he steered them to the play-offs, but this year he has taken them all the way to the final. It is their first in nearly a decade.
Muzarabani, the towering fast bowler, was drafted in last week as a temporary replacement for South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi, who left for the World Test Championship. Though new to the squad, the big man from Harare is now on the brink of becoming one of the first Zimbabweans to lift the glittering IPL trophy.
RCB’s Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, showered praise on Flower’s leadership.
“I’ve really enjoyed watching Andy coach with a fresh approach this year. The team dynamic has shifted. New captain, new energy, and he’s created a dressing room where players feel empowered,” said Bobat.
RCB will be looking to repeat last week’s eight-wicket demolition of Punjab Kings in the first qualifier. But Punjab roared back in the second qualifier, stunning five-time champs Mumbai Indians to set up this blockbuster rematch.
With both franchises still chasing their first IPL crown, it is all or nothing in Ahmedabad and Zimbabwe is watching with bated breath!
Sidumisile Mabena