Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE Cricket have engaged former West Indies fast-bowling great Courtney Walsh as bowling consultant for the senior men’s national team ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting next month.
Walsh has already begun working with the squad as Zimbabwe step up preparations for the tournament, where they will compete in Group B alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and Sri Lanka.
ZC managing director Givemore Makoni said the appointment was aimed at strengthening the team’s technical depth ahead of the global event.
“Courtney Walsh brings unparalleled experience and insight at the highest level of international cricket, particularly in fast bowling,” he said.
“As we prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, it was important for us to bring in someone who understands what it takes to succeed on the global stage.
“Courtney’s knowledge, professionalism and ability to mentor players will be invaluable as we sharpen our bowling resources for the challenges ahead.”
Makoni added that Walsh’s familiarity with Zimbabwean cricket was a key factor in the decision.
“He has previously worked with our women’s national team and understands our cricketing environment,” he said.
“That continuity, combined with his global coaching experience, gives us confidence that he will have a meaningful impact on the squad.”
Walsh said he was excited to get an opportunity to work with the team and expressed confidence in Zimbabwe’s prospects at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
“I am very excited about the opportunity to work with Zimbabwe and really looking forward to the challenges ahead,” he said.
“I think we have a very good chance once we execute well and work together as a team and adapt to the conditions.”
Walsh added that early impressions of the bowling unit had been encouraging.
“The combination of the attack has impressed me from watching and the potential that’s within the team,” he said.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in the history of the game, Walsh represented the West Indies from 1984 to 2001, claiming 519 wickets in 132 Tests and becoming the first bowler to reach 500 Test wickets.
Since retiring, the Jamaican has taken on several high-profile coaching roles, including serving as head coach of the West Indies women’s team and specialist bowling coach for Bangladesh’s men’s side.
In April 2024, he was appointed as a technical consultant to the Zimbabwe women’s national team.
Zimbabwe will open their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign against Oman at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo on February 9, before a meeting with Australia at the R. Premadasa Stadium on 13 February.
They will then travel to Kandy to face Ireland at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on February 17, before returning to Colombo to conclude their group fixtures against Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 19.
The top two teams from Group B will advance to the Super Eight stage of the tournament. – Zimpapers Sports Hub/Zimcricket.
