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Brandon Moyo, Sports Reporter
ZIMBABWE are gearing up to face Uruguay in a World Group II play-off tie scheduled for February 2-4 at Harare Sports Club.
Takanyi Garanganga is Zimbabwe’s non-playing captain, with the 32-year-old taking over from Freeman Nyamunokora.
Making up the Zimbabwean team are the Lock brothers, Benjamin and Courtney, Mehluli Sibanda, and Benedict Badza.
Garanganga, who has always been a part of the Zimbabwe Davis Cup team setup, as a player said preparations for the tie are going smoothly as they have had training sessions and are trying to familiarise themselves with the conditions at Harare Sports Club.
“Preparations are going well and everything is in order. Everyone is in camp and all is well as we are also trying to get used to the different conditions and we will give it our best,” said Garanganga.
He added that they are looking at winning the fixture against the South American nation as they are hoping to also secure promotion to the next stage which is Group I of the decorated tennis competition.
Zimbabwe’s hopes will be pinned on the experience of the Lock brothers, who have been part of the team for some time and have proved to be key members. The brothers come with vast capabilities having been taking part in different Challenger Tours globally.
Ranked number 67 in the world, Zimbabwe will be hoping to cause an upset against a number 42 ranked Uruguayan side who will be banking on their seasoned campaigners like Ariel Behar and Martin Cuevas. Behar has a world doubles ranking of 48.
The other members of the Uruguayan team are Ignacio Carou, Franco Roncadelli and Joaquin Aguilar Cardozo. They will be led by captain Enrique Perez-Cassarino.
Zimbabwe secured promotion back to Davis Cup World Group II Play-offs when they overcame Namibia 2-1 in a promotional play-off at the Africa Group III event last August in Algiers, Algeria. – @brandon_malvin
Online Reporter