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Ricky Zililo Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S One Day International (ODI) match against former world champions India set for 31 July at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo has been moved to 1 August due to the harmonised elections. The Matabeleland Tuskers Cricket Franchise chief executive officer Stanley Staddon confirmed the development yesterday.
He however said their preparations were at an advanced stage.
“Preparations for the Zimbabwe-India ODIs are on course and everything is in place. However, cricket lovers in Bulawayo and the rest of the country have to note that there is a change to the second ODI which was set for 31 July because on that date the country will be having the harmonised elections. That game will be played on 1 August and we hope that it is going to draw a big crowd as people will have cast their votes,” Staddon said.
The former cricket world champions – India – are scheduled to play two One Day International (ODI) matches against Zimbabwe at Bulawayo’s ceremonial home of cricket, Queens Sports Club.
India’s tour to Zimbabwe is part of the four international matches that Queens Sports Club plays host to before the end of the year.
The Asians will play three ODIs in Harare with the other two set for the City of Kings.
According to the itinerary, India arrives in the country on 21 July and will flight out on 3 August. They will play two ODIs here at Queens on Sunday 28 July and 1 August.
Bangladesh were in the country in May and they played two Twenty20 and three One Day International matches against Zimbabwe.
After India’s departure, Pakistan will be arriving in August to play two Test matches at Queens Sports Club before Sri Lanka wraps up an eventful year for Bulawayo cricket enthusiasts in October.
Sri Lanka will play two Twenty20 games and three ODIs.
Staddon said they have already started working on the grounds to make sure that the wickets are ready for the India matches.
“We want Bulawayo to stage the best matches and that can only happen if the people come in their numbers to support cricket,” said Staddon
Twenty-five players have been in camp since last month preparing for the India matches.
Among those in camp are Matabeleland Tuskers trio of Christopher Mpofu, Sean Williams and Keegan Meth.
Online Reporter