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AFTER conniving to lose the ODI series 1-2 to New Zealand, Zimbabwe’s Chevrons have a chance to redeem their pride when they face the visiting Kiwis in a one-off T20 match at Harare Sports Club today.
The visitors are strong favourites to claim the match after coming from behind to claim the ODI series.
Zimbabwe will be the first to admit that they handed victory to New Zealand.
Batsman Sean Williams believes batting momentum is key for Zimbabwe today.
“Look, I think we have got the momentum. Our openers have shown a lot of skill and consistency but we just have not pushed from there, so it’s just everybody collectively coming together now. I think India and New Zealand are different bowling units completely . . . ”
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson says they are not taking Zimbabwe lightly despite the ODI series triumph.
“It’s nice to get momentum. We know that Zimbabwe are a very dangerous side and Twenty-20 cricket is a free–flying game . . . we have to play smart to beat them,” says Williamson, who also feels missing the injured Ross Taylor for the whole of their tour is a “shame”.
Who to watch
Hamilton Masakadza enjoys a good record against New Zealand in T2Os, averaging 30,60 with a healthy strike rate of 139,09, with two 50s in five innings. Masakadza turns 32 today and the opening batsman will be eager to make a statement on his special day. Kane Williamson is in sparkling form for New Zealand. He averaged 93,50 in the three ODIs with a top score of 97 and was duly voted man of the series. He will be key for the Kiwis.
Online Reporter