Australian fast bowler Shuan Tait, is set to add to his tally of Twenty20 teams after agreeing terms with Zimbabwean domestic franchise Mid West Rhinos. Tait will play for Rhinos during Zimbabwe's domestic Twenty20 competition in late November this year.
Tait, who signed up to play for the Melbourne Renegades in Australia's Big Bash League six weeks ago and will also represent Dolphins, the Durban-based South African franchise, for the Pro20 competition early next year, said he hoped his Zimbabwe stint would help boost his match fitness ahead of his Big Bash outing.
''That's the thing with Twenty20 tournaments, you've got to pick which ones are at the right time to keep your match fitness up, and rest in between,'' he said. ''It's just [before] the Big Bash, so it's perfect timing.''
The dates for Zimbabwe's fortnight-long Twenty20 tournament have not been finalised but it is expected that the competition will be completed by December 3, which will allow Tait to travel back to Melbourne well in time to prepare for the Big Bash.
Tait retired from Tests in 2008 and quit ODIs too following Australia's exit in the quarter-final stage of the 2011 World Cup. He then represented Rajasthan Royals in the IPL this year, grabbing six wickets in four games. He was forced to turn down a deal with Surrey earlier this year due to an elbow injury sustained during the IPL. His Zimbabwe deal was set up by his former teammate Jason Gillespie, who has also re-signed as coach of Rhinos.
''The way it's going I'm just going to play [Twenty20] tournaments," Tait, who is still available to play Twenty20 cricket for Australia, said. "If clubs are keen to sign me, that's great. I've become sort of a freelance Twenty20 player.''
Tuesday 23 August 2011
METH LOSES TEETH
Keegan Meth was withdrawn from the final UCB ODI match between Zimbabwe and
Bangladesh at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, on Sunday. He sustained a mouth
injury off the last ball of the Bangladesh innings when he had a direct ball
blow straight onto his mouth after Nasir Hossain played a shot back to him.
Meth lost three upper row teeth on impact and a laceration of his lower
lip. The doctor on call at the venue attended to the Meth's lower lip wound
which was sutured at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo where he was attended
to by a dentist.
The extent of the damage on Meth's jaws and mouth can only be ascertained
after X ray examination and the dentist's report tomorrow. "Due to the
extent of the injury we had to rush him [Meth] to the hospital. He will have
to go for X-Rays tomorrow to establish the nature of the dental injury. He
will require some orthodentistry for the three teeth and any other possible
injuries that might have ensued from the impact," said Zimbabwe National
team physiotherapist, Amato Machikicho.
Keegan was able to join the rest of the team during Zimbabwe's innings and
also partook in the celebrations thereafter.
-ENDS-
For further information visit www.zimcricket.org or contact:
Jeffrey Murimbechi
Media Manager
Zimbabwe Cricket
address: 43 Victoria Drive, Highlands, post: P.O. Box 2739, Harare, Zimbabwe
tel: +263 (4) 705901,705903 , fax: +263 (4) 788094, mobile: +263 (712) 456
960
Bangladesh at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, on Sunday. He sustained a mouth
injury off the last ball of the Bangladesh innings when he had a direct ball
blow straight onto his mouth after Nasir Hossain played a shot back to him.
Meth lost three upper row teeth on impact and a laceration of his lower
lip. The doctor on call at the venue attended to the Meth's lower lip wound
which was sutured at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo where he was attended
to by a dentist.
The extent of the damage on Meth's jaws and mouth can only be ascertained
after X ray examination and the dentist's report tomorrow. "Due to the
extent of the injury we had to rush him [Meth] to the hospital. He will have
to go for X-Rays tomorrow to establish the nature of the dental injury. He
will require some orthodentistry for the three teeth and any other possible
injuries that might have ensued from the impact," said Zimbabwe National
team physiotherapist, Amato Machikicho.
Keegan was able to join the rest of the team during Zimbabwe's innings and
also partook in the celebrations thereafter.
-ENDS-
For further information visit www.zimcricket.org or contact:
Jeffrey Murimbechi
Media Manager
Zimbabwe Cricket
address: 43 Victoria Drive, Highlands, post: P.O. Box 2739, Harare, Zimbabwe
tel: +263 (4) 705901,705903 , fax: +263 (4) 788094, mobile: +263 (712) 456
960
Tuesday 16 August 2011
ZIM BREAK SIX YEAR DROUGHT
STANFORD JONI, HARARE
A crucial wicket by Tuskers bowler Chris Mpofu in the final over help to Zimbabwe clinch the UCB ODI series after beating Bangladesh in a nail biting encounter in Harare yesterday. Zimbabwe now lead three nil and this is their first series win in five years.
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field. Zimbabwe opened with Captain Brandon Taylor and Vusi Sibanda amid an overcast sky. The visitors were off to a busy start as they quickly removed Taylor off the bowling of Shafiul Islam. He was caught at first slip by Junzed Siddique after failing to deal with the morning movement of the new ball; he had faced 20 balls and did not do much to trouble the scores as was on four runs.
Vusi Sibanda soon followed after contributing 27, he was caught by Imrul Kayes off the bowling Rubel Hossain. Hamilton Masakadza was then joined by Tatenda Taibu and the two were left at the crease to e control the damage as Zimbabwe had crumbled to 39 for 2 in the 14th over. They had an amazing 143 run partnership. They batted with easy and showed great composure with a high level of maturity being evident in the two veterans. Masakadza however departed after making 73 runs after facing 100 balls after being bowled by Hossain .
After being dropped at mid wicket, at the covers and behind by wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim ,Taibu went on to make 83 runs of 103 balls and eventually went out off the bowling of Nazmul Hossain. He was caught by Hossain deep on the leg-side after attempting a pull shot in the 46th over .
The hard hitting Elton Chigumbura came in with a whooping display of two sixes and one four and he made a comfortable 31 off 21 balls before he was caught by Hossain again on the leg side off the bowling of captain Shakib Al Hasssan.
Bangladesh restricted to 250 for seven. Ruebel Hossain was the pick of the bowlers getting two wickets for 41 runs while Nazmul and Mamadullah picked up a one wicket each.
Bangladesh seemed to have finally learned from the lessons of matches past and the Zimbabwe innings earlier and decided not to go for broke upfront. With Brian Vitori and Kyle Jarvis opening the bowling, the Bangladesh openers were even more watchful and put on their best partnership of the series. Vitori did not get the same movement he did in the first two ODIs and was seen off carefully and even the pace of Jarvis was dealt with in composed fashion.
Vitori was taken off after a short spell of three overs and replaced by Chris Mpofu. Tamim Iqbal's first attacking shot came off Mpofu, a blistering stroke that was creamed past mid-off. He followed it up with two cracking shots through the covers, showing glimpses of the prowess that he is so well known for. Imrul Kayes acted as a foil to Tamim, absorbing the pressure and letting it off only slightly to rotate strike. He survived one close lbw shout off Prosper Utseya but when the second one came, Imrul was given his marching orders.
Junaid Siddique made his first appearance in the series on a precarious note, getting an outside edge for four. He didn't look entirely in control in his brief time at the crease, lofting a length delivery to the boundary off Mpofu with some circumspection. He departed after pushing a tossed up ball straight back to Utseya, who was rewarded for flighting it.
With Utseya the only frontline tweaker in the attack, Brendan Taylor had a tricky task of managing his four seamers and brought Vitori back in the 18th over, with Chigumbura bowling at the other end. Although Vitori did not get a wicket in his first seven overs, he was difficult to get away. Chigumbura struggled against the right/left combination of Tamim and Mushfiqur Rahim at first, but soon found his rhythm.
Zimbabwe edged ahead at the halfway stage when Tamim was run out by Mpofu after attempting a second while chancing the fast-bowlers arm. Tamim was without his bat, which he dropped midway and failed to make his ground.
The two sides clash in two more dead rubber in the city of kings on Friday and Sunday to round off the series.
A crucial wicket by Tuskers bowler Chris Mpofu in the final over help to Zimbabwe clinch the UCB ODI series after beating Bangladesh in a nail biting encounter in Harare yesterday. Zimbabwe now lead three nil and this is their first series win in five years.
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field. Zimbabwe opened with Captain Brandon Taylor and Vusi Sibanda amid an overcast sky. The visitors were off to a busy start as they quickly removed Taylor off the bowling of Shafiul Islam. He was caught at first slip by Junzed Siddique after failing to deal with the morning movement of the new ball; he had faced 20 balls and did not do much to trouble the scores as was on four runs.
Vusi Sibanda soon followed after contributing 27, he was caught by Imrul Kayes off the bowling Rubel Hossain. Hamilton Masakadza was then joined by Tatenda Taibu and the two were left at the crease to e control the damage as Zimbabwe had crumbled to 39 for 2 in the 14th over. They had an amazing 143 run partnership. They batted with easy and showed great composure with a high level of maturity being evident in the two veterans. Masakadza however departed after making 73 runs after facing 100 balls after being bowled by Hossain .
After being dropped at mid wicket, at the covers and behind by wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim ,Taibu went on to make 83 runs of 103 balls and eventually went out off the bowling of Nazmul Hossain. He was caught by Hossain deep on the leg-side after attempting a pull shot in the 46th over .
The hard hitting Elton Chigumbura came in with a whooping display of two sixes and one four and he made a comfortable 31 off 21 balls before he was caught by Hossain again on the leg side off the bowling of captain Shakib Al Hasssan.
Bangladesh restricted to 250 for seven. Ruebel Hossain was the pick of the bowlers getting two wickets for 41 runs while Nazmul and Mamadullah picked up a one wicket each.
Bangladesh seemed to have finally learned from the lessons of matches past and the Zimbabwe innings earlier and decided not to go for broke upfront. With Brian Vitori and Kyle Jarvis opening the bowling, the Bangladesh openers were even more watchful and put on their best partnership of the series. Vitori did not get the same movement he did in the first two ODIs and was seen off carefully and even the pace of Jarvis was dealt with in composed fashion.
Vitori was taken off after a short spell of three overs and replaced by Chris Mpofu. Tamim Iqbal's first attacking shot came off Mpofu, a blistering stroke that was creamed past mid-off. He followed it up with two cracking shots through the covers, showing glimpses of the prowess that he is so well known for. Imrul Kayes acted as a foil to Tamim, absorbing the pressure and letting it off only slightly to rotate strike. He survived one close lbw shout off Prosper Utseya but when the second one came, Imrul was given his marching orders.
Junaid Siddique made his first appearance in the series on a precarious note, getting an outside edge for four. He didn't look entirely in control in his brief time at the crease, lofting a length delivery to the boundary off Mpofu with some circumspection. He departed after pushing a tossed up ball straight back to Utseya, who was rewarded for flighting it.
With Utseya the only frontline tweaker in the attack, Brendan Taylor had a tricky task of managing his four seamers and brought Vitori back in the 18th over, with Chigumbura bowling at the other end. Although Vitori did not get a wicket in his first seven overs, he was difficult to get away. Chigumbura struggled against the right/left combination of Tamim and Mushfiqur Rahim at first, but soon found his rhythm.
Zimbabwe edged ahead at the halfway stage when Tamim was run out by Mpofu after attempting a second while chancing the fast-bowlers arm. Tamim was without his bat, which he dropped midway and failed to make his ground.
The two sides clash in two more dead rubber in the city of kings on Friday and Sunday to round off the series.
SHAKIB SPEAKS OUT ON MENTAL TOUGHNESS
GODFREY C. KOTI, HARARE
BANGLADESH captain Shakib Al Hassan, blamed his misfiring batting line-up for his side's dismal show in Zimbabwe as they slumped to their second straight defeat in the five-match ODI series. His charges crumbled to an unconvincing 188, thought it was a recovery 58 for six. Zimbabwe reached the target in before the 45th over, losing just three wickets.
"We didn't perform well at all, especially our top five batsmen," Shakib said after the game. "Nobody scored runs. When you're playing an ODI game and the top five are not scoring any runs, it is hard for the team to come back and put a good total on the board."
The top-order collapse was a worryingly recurrent theme for the visitors, having slumped to 43 for 5 in the previous game. Shakib believed it was a mental issue, as opposed to a question of talent. "We have to ask everyone separately what's going through their mind," he said. "It has nothing to do with their technique, but their mindset."
"They are bowling well there's no doubt. But we are capable of handling this bowling … It will show how tough we are, if we can bounce back; otherwise we are not tough enough. We are not too soft to give up so easily."
That Bangladesh reached 188 was down to a strong rearguard from debutant Nasir Hossain, who made 63 batting at No. 8 - an effort that his captain appreciated. "He played very well, given it was his first game," Shakib said. "Normally there's pressure in that situation … when he got to bat we were 58 for 6. He played a good innings from that position. I hope he contributes [consistently], it was a special innings."
Zimbabwe have been the better team by far throughout the tour, starting with the one-off Test that they won in impressive fashion, despite Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal writing off their attack and terming the impressive Vitori "ordinary".
"I think you should ask the person who made this comment," Shakib said when asked for his take on the "ordinary" verdict. "I think they're well prepared and they're better than us in all three departments."
Vitori has been Bangladesh's bugbear since the first innings of the Test, even before Tamim made his comment, following up an impressive Test debut with an unprecedented brace of five-fors in his first two ODIs. No bowler had taken more than eight wickets in his first two ODIs before Vitori's feat, and his captain Brendan Taylor was effusive in praise.
"It is an amazing start," Taylor said after the game. "He is a new world-record holder. He is a great guy to work with, a very hungry cricketer.
"I am slightly surprised [by Bangladesh's collapses]. They bat to No. 7 but credit must go to the bowlers. We didn't give them many opportunities to score. Bowlers stuck to their guns after they got hit for boundaries."
Despite his side's dominance in the first two games, Taylor refused to take things lightly. "I remember in 2005 we were 2-0 up and then lost 3-2," he said. "We're not expecting a series win straight away. We know they will try to bounce back but we have to be a step ahead.
"Tuesday's a massive game. If we lose there it is 2-1 and Bangladesh have a chance to get back in the series. We'll go away tomorrow and regroup in a team meeting. There are not too many things we're concerned about. We will stay humble and when it comes game time, we want to be 100% up for it."
BANGLADESH captain Shakib Al Hassan, blamed his misfiring batting line-up for his side's dismal show in Zimbabwe as they slumped to their second straight defeat in the five-match ODI series. His charges crumbled to an unconvincing 188, thought it was a recovery 58 for six. Zimbabwe reached the target in before the 45th over, losing just three wickets.
"We didn't perform well at all, especially our top five batsmen," Shakib said after the game. "Nobody scored runs. When you're playing an ODI game and the top five are not scoring any runs, it is hard for the team to come back and put a good total on the board."
The top-order collapse was a worryingly recurrent theme for the visitors, having slumped to 43 for 5 in the previous game. Shakib believed it was a mental issue, as opposed to a question of talent. "We have to ask everyone separately what's going through their mind," he said. "It has nothing to do with their technique, but their mindset."
"They are bowling well there's no doubt. But we are capable of handling this bowling … It will show how tough we are, if we can bounce back; otherwise we are not tough enough. We are not too soft to give up so easily."
That Bangladesh reached 188 was down to a strong rearguard from debutant Nasir Hossain, who made 63 batting at No. 8 - an effort that his captain appreciated. "He played very well, given it was his first game," Shakib said. "Normally there's pressure in that situation … when he got to bat we were 58 for 6. He played a good innings from that position. I hope he contributes [consistently], it was a special innings."
Zimbabwe have been the better team by far throughout the tour, starting with the one-off Test that they won in impressive fashion, despite Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal writing off their attack and terming the impressive Vitori "ordinary".
"I think you should ask the person who made this comment," Shakib said when asked for his take on the "ordinary" verdict. "I think they're well prepared and they're better than us in all three departments."
Vitori has been Bangladesh's bugbear since the first innings of the Test, even before Tamim made his comment, following up an impressive Test debut with an unprecedented brace of five-fors in his first two ODIs. No bowler had taken more than eight wickets in his first two ODIs before Vitori's feat, and his captain Brendan Taylor was effusive in praise.
"It is an amazing start," Taylor said after the game. "He is a new world-record holder. He is a great guy to work with, a very hungry cricketer.
"I am slightly surprised [by Bangladesh's collapses]. They bat to No. 7 but credit must go to the bowlers. We didn't give them many opportunities to score. Bowlers stuck to their guns after they got hit for boundaries."
Despite his side's dominance in the first two games, Taylor refused to take things lightly. "I remember in 2005 we were 2-0 up and then lost 3-2," he said. "We're not expecting a series win straight away. We know they will try to bounce back but we have to be a step ahead.
"Tuesday's a massive game. If we lose there it is 2-1 and Bangladesh have a chance to get back in the series. We'll go away tomorrow and regroup in a team meeting. There are not too many things we're concerned about. We will stay humble and when it comes game time, we want to be 100% up for it."
VITORI BREAKS WORLD RECORD
as Zim beat Bangladesh
GODFREY C. KOTI, HARARE
Brian Vitori became the first bowler in the world to grab two five wicket hauls in a row as Zimbabwe recorded their second win against Bangladesh; giving them comfortable a two nil series lead. Brian Vitori tore the Bangladesh line-up apart, with his second ODI five-for in his second appearance to for his country. Vusi Sibanda built the foundation for the chase, before Tatenda Taibu's half-century sealed the win.
The hosts have won both matches of the series so far and while still enjoying the lead, they have three more ODI matches to go.
On Friday Vitori became just the seventh bowler in history to take a five-wicket haul on one-day debut, and he followed that up on Sunday by taking five for 20 - the sixth best figures by a Zimbabwean bowler in ODIs, as Bangladesh were bowled out for 188.
Zimbabwe lost their captain Brendan Taylor early on in the chase after he had only contributed runs on the board. Vusi Sibanda followed up his 96 in the series opener on Friday with a steady 67, before Tatenda Taibu finished unbeaten on 61 from 74 balls as the hosts coasted home with almost six overs to spare.
The match was in many respects a reflection of Friday's clash, with Bangladesh's top order collapsing cheaply before the lower middle order pulled things back, and then Sibanda providing the spine of the successful reply.
Debutant Nasir Hossain was the hero for the tourists with the bat, rescuing his brittle side from 58 for six by making 63 from the number eight position.
Vitori had removed both Bangladeshi openers, while Chris Mpofu bounced out Mushfiqur Rahim after the wicketkeeper-batsman had been promoted to number three, leaving Bangladesh struggling on 26 for three.
Shahriar Nafees and Mohammad Ashraful attempted to take the patient approach to rebuilding, but the introduction of Elton Chigumbura put paid to their efforts as Nafees popped a slower delivery straight to cover and Ashraful edged behind.
When Prosper Utseya had Mahmudullah caught behind shortly afterwards the Tigers were 58 for six and in danger of being beaten by lunch.
Instead Nasir gave support to skipper Shakib Al Hasan as the duo put on 53 for the seventh wicket, with the debutant particularly harsh in putting away the short ball.
Vitori returned for an over to break the partnership as he trapped Shakib lbw for 26, but Bangladesh counter-attacked through Abdur Razzak as his 32-ball 35 added 75 to the score alongside Nasir.
Again it took Vitori to break through, as he returned for his final spell and had Nasir caught in the deep, then bowled Razzak with a peach of a delivery that hit the top of off stump.
With Rubel Hossain run out off the very next ball, Bangladesh were all out with 15 deliveries left unused and Vitori had the record for most wickets taken by a bowler in his first two one-day internationals.
The hosts brushed aside the early loss of their skipper thanks to a sturdy 83-run partnership between Sibanda and Hamilton Masakadza which took the score to 87 for one, before Masakadza failed to read Mahmudullah's delivery and was stumped for 38.
However any thoughts of a Bangladeshi revival were snuffed out by the arrival of Taibu, who calmly added 59 for the third wicket with Sibanda.
The opening batsman was in no great hurry due to the low required run-rate, taking 96 balls for his innings as he happily played second fiddle to Taibu.
Part-timer Mohammad Ashraful eventually got the better of Sibanda, but by that stage Zimbabwe were just 43 runs from victory and Craig Ervine gave Taibu the much needed support until the end.
Bangladesh fell apart at the seams as defeat neared, dropping a simple chance from Taibu and then helping him to fifty with seven runs from one delivery, when the batsmen ran three and then collected four overthrows.
GODFREY C. KOTI, HARARE
Brian Vitori became the first bowler in the world to grab two five wicket hauls in a row as Zimbabwe recorded their second win against Bangladesh; giving them comfortable a two nil series lead. Brian Vitori tore the Bangladesh line-up apart, with his second ODI five-for in his second appearance to for his country. Vusi Sibanda built the foundation for the chase, before Tatenda Taibu's half-century sealed the win.
The hosts have won both matches of the series so far and while still enjoying the lead, they have three more ODI matches to go.
On Friday Vitori became just the seventh bowler in history to take a five-wicket haul on one-day debut, and he followed that up on Sunday by taking five for 20 - the sixth best figures by a Zimbabwean bowler in ODIs, as Bangladesh were bowled out for 188.
Zimbabwe lost their captain Brendan Taylor early on in the chase after he had only contributed runs on the board. Vusi Sibanda followed up his 96 in the series opener on Friday with a steady 67, before Tatenda Taibu finished unbeaten on 61 from 74 balls as the hosts coasted home with almost six overs to spare.
The match was in many respects a reflection of Friday's clash, with Bangladesh's top order collapsing cheaply before the lower middle order pulled things back, and then Sibanda providing the spine of the successful reply.
Debutant Nasir Hossain was the hero for the tourists with the bat, rescuing his brittle side from 58 for six by making 63 from the number eight position.
Vitori had removed both Bangladeshi openers, while Chris Mpofu bounced out Mushfiqur Rahim after the wicketkeeper-batsman had been promoted to number three, leaving Bangladesh struggling on 26 for three.
Shahriar Nafees and Mohammad Ashraful attempted to take the patient approach to rebuilding, but the introduction of Elton Chigumbura put paid to their efforts as Nafees popped a slower delivery straight to cover and Ashraful edged behind.
When Prosper Utseya had Mahmudullah caught behind shortly afterwards the Tigers were 58 for six and in danger of being beaten by lunch.
Instead Nasir gave support to skipper Shakib Al Hasan as the duo put on 53 for the seventh wicket, with the debutant particularly harsh in putting away the short ball.
Vitori returned for an over to break the partnership as he trapped Shakib lbw for 26, but Bangladesh counter-attacked through Abdur Razzak as his 32-ball 35 added 75 to the score alongside Nasir.
Again it took Vitori to break through, as he returned for his final spell and had Nasir caught in the deep, then bowled Razzak with a peach of a delivery that hit the top of off stump.
With Rubel Hossain run out off the very next ball, Bangladesh were all out with 15 deliveries left unused and Vitori had the record for most wickets taken by a bowler in his first two one-day internationals.
The hosts brushed aside the early loss of their skipper thanks to a sturdy 83-run partnership between Sibanda and Hamilton Masakadza which took the score to 87 for one, before Masakadza failed to read Mahmudullah's delivery and was stumped for 38.
However any thoughts of a Bangladeshi revival were snuffed out by the arrival of Taibu, who calmly added 59 for the third wicket with Sibanda.
The opening batsman was in no great hurry due to the low required run-rate, taking 96 balls for his innings as he happily played second fiddle to Taibu.
Part-timer Mohammad Ashraful eventually got the better of Sibanda, but by that stage Zimbabwe were just 43 runs from victory and Craig Ervine gave Taibu the much needed support until the end.
Bangladesh fell apart at the seams as defeat neared, dropping a simple chance from Taibu and then helping him to fifty with seven runs from one delivery, when the batsmen ran three and then collected four overthrows.
Friday 12 August 2011
VITORI SHINES AS ZIM WIN FIRST ODI
GODFREY KOTI, Harare
BRIAN VITORI ‘s five wicket haul and tight bowling by Chris Mpofu ensured another venomous attack by Zimbabwe as they walked past a touring Bangladesh side by four wickets at Harare.
It was another good result for the resurgent locals who have had lady luck singing on their side lately. The massive all round performance that was witnessed in the Test match has continued for the hosts bringing their competitive mojo right back into the days of Heath Streak and Andy Flower.
Captain Brendon Taylor won the toss and sent Bangladesh in to bat with Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes opening the batting for the visitors, while Chris Mpofu and Vittori got the new ball.
Zimbabwe made their victory intentions clear as early as the fifth over when Vusi Sibanda just missed out on a run out opportunity. Sibanda missed the stumps with Kayes nowhere near the crease eventually making it back safely. One ball later Vitori got his first wicket of the innings when Iqbal mistimed his shot and lofted it into the waiting hands of Elton Chigumbura at mid on. Iqbal made four runs after facing 18 balls leaving the visitors seven runs for one.
The impressive Vitori struck again in the eighth over when he bowled Shahriah Nafees who was on 14 after facing 29 deliveries. Vittori’s delivery was both quick and swung immensely to beat Nafees and uprooted his off stump deeping the Tigers of Bangladesh in all sorts of trouble at 28 for two.
Vitori struck for the third time in the 14th over when he forced Mohammad Ashraful to play a short ball and was caught at fine leg by Mpofu. Ashraful did not trouble the scorers much as he only managed two runs from seven balls before being dismissed by the man of the moment.
Vitori continued to entertain the on lookers on his debut making history as the first Zimbabwean to pick up five wickets on his first outing. He trapped Imrul Kayes leg before wicket. Kayes was on eleven runs from 22 balls when he failed to deal with the debutante’s accurate bowling that was coupled with great swing and pace.
Elton Chigumbura was brought in and immediately made an impact. He delivered a short ball that Mahmudullah failed to deal with eventually skiing it into the hands of Hamilton Masakadza at third-man. It was by no means an easy catch as Masakadza had to stretch forward on the run to collect. Mahmadullah was out for five from 15 deliveries.
Bangladesh was floundering on 43 for five and appeared increasingly desperate to get runs on the board. The Tigers almost lost another wicket in the 29th over, but wicket keeper Tatenda Taibu fumbled a stumping chance allowing Shakib Al Hasan to land back safely after failing to apprehend with a Utseya ball.
Shakib and Shuhrawardi Shuvo went on to build a 105-run sixth partnership as the hosts attack failed to penetrate. It took a bold decision by Taylor to make the difference. He brought in Masakadza to bowl and the part timer broke the partnership when he dismissed Shakib who was on 53 runs and cruising. Shakib attempted to drive a slower ball but only succeeded in carrying it to Utseya at mid off.
Utseya picked up his 100th ODI wicket in 128 matches when he dismissed Mushfiqur Rahim for 59 off 91 balls after the latter was caught at deep mid off by Masakadza. Ray Price got the wicket of Abdur Razzak in the 45th over the all-rounder was caught on leg side by Taylor after attempting to play the glance shot.
Zimbabwe came in to bat and lost a quick wicket after Taylor was bowled by Shakib with only 10 runs on the board. Shakib managed to get the ball to turn on the flat wicket to beat Taylor who had come forward to attack missing the ball and being bowled at off stump to leave Zimbabwe at 26 for one.
Sibanda and Masakadza had a 86-run third wicket partnership before Masakadza was run out for 41 from 58 deliveries. They managed to score a fairly quick 86 from 111 balls and were 112 for two when Masakadza departed. Taibu came in at four, but only lasted two balls before being bowled out by Rubel Hossain to leave Zimbabwe on 124 for three. One ball later, new man Craig Ervine followed Taibu to the pavilion as he was caught behind by wicket keeper, Mushfiqur Rahim.
Sibanda and new man Forster Mutizwa steadied the ship and their partnership yielded 51 runs off 72 balls before the former miscued a attempted pull shot to be caught by Mahmadullah off Rubel Islam’s bowling. It brought a sad end to a knock as Sibanda departed for 96 runs off 102 balls.
Chigumbura was needlessly dismissed when he was caught only 3 runs on the board. The former captain was caught by Tamim off a Rubel leaving the hosts needing three for victory.Mutizwa eventually won the match for Zimbabwe with a well crafted 29 runs off 53 balls. He seemed to be looking for the big shot and the opportunity presented itself in the 42nd over when he cut a short ball to the boundary to give the hosts a four wicket victory.
Vitori was named man of the match for his five wicket haul.
BRIAN VITORI ‘s five wicket haul and tight bowling by Chris Mpofu ensured another venomous attack by Zimbabwe as they walked past a touring Bangladesh side by four wickets at Harare.
It was another good result for the resurgent locals who have had lady luck singing on their side lately. The massive all round performance that was witnessed in the Test match has continued for the hosts bringing their competitive mojo right back into the days of Heath Streak and Andy Flower.
Captain Brendon Taylor won the toss and sent Bangladesh in to bat with Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes opening the batting for the visitors, while Chris Mpofu and Vittori got the new ball.
Zimbabwe made their victory intentions clear as early as the fifth over when Vusi Sibanda just missed out on a run out opportunity. Sibanda missed the stumps with Kayes nowhere near the crease eventually making it back safely. One ball later Vitori got his first wicket of the innings when Iqbal mistimed his shot and lofted it into the waiting hands of Elton Chigumbura at mid on. Iqbal made four runs after facing 18 balls leaving the visitors seven runs for one.
The impressive Vitori struck again in the eighth over when he bowled Shahriah Nafees who was on 14 after facing 29 deliveries. Vittori’s delivery was both quick and swung immensely to beat Nafees and uprooted his off stump deeping the Tigers of Bangladesh in all sorts of trouble at 28 for two.
Vitori struck for the third time in the 14th over when he forced Mohammad Ashraful to play a short ball and was caught at fine leg by Mpofu. Ashraful did not trouble the scorers much as he only managed two runs from seven balls before being dismissed by the man of the moment.
Vitori continued to entertain the on lookers on his debut making history as the first Zimbabwean to pick up five wickets on his first outing. He trapped Imrul Kayes leg before wicket. Kayes was on eleven runs from 22 balls when he failed to deal with the debutante’s accurate bowling that was coupled with great swing and pace.
Elton Chigumbura was brought in and immediately made an impact. He delivered a short ball that Mahmudullah failed to deal with eventually skiing it into the hands of Hamilton Masakadza at third-man. It was by no means an easy catch as Masakadza had to stretch forward on the run to collect. Mahmadullah was out for five from 15 deliveries.
Bangladesh was floundering on 43 for five and appeared increasingly desperate to get runs on the board. The Tigers almost lost another wicket in the 29th over, but wicket keeper Tatenda Taibu fumbled a stumping chance allowing Shakib Al Hasan to land back safely after failing to apprehend with a Utseya ball.
Shakib and Shuhrawardi Shuvo went on to build a 105-run sixth partnership as the hosts attack failed to penetrate. It took a bold decision by Taylor to make the difference. He brought in Masakadza to bowl and the part timer broke the partnership when he dismissed Shakib who was on 53 runs and cruising. Shakib attempted to drive a slower ball but only succeeded in carrying it to Utseya at mid off.
Utseya picked up his 100th ODI wicket in 128 matches when he dismissed Mushfiqur Rahim for 59 off 91 balls after the latter was caught at deep mid off by Masakadza. Ray Price got the wicket of Abdur Razzak in the 45th over the all-rounder was caught on leg side by Taylor after attempting to play the glance shot.
Zimbabwe came in to bat and lost a quick wicket after Taylor was bowled by Shakib with only 10 runs on the board. Shakib managed to get the ball to turn on the flat wicket to beat Taylor who had come forward to attack missing the ball and being bowled at off stump to leave Zimbabwe at 26 for one.
Sibanda and Masakadza had a 86-run third wicket partnership before Masakadza was run out for 41 from 58 deliveries. They managed to score a fairly quick 86 from 111 balls and were 112 for two when Masakadza departed. Taibu came in at four, but only lasted two balls before being bowled out by Rubel Hossain to leave Zimbabwe on 124 for three. One ball later, new man Craig Ervine followed Taibu to the pavilion as he was caught behind by wicket keeper, Mushfiqur Rahim.
Sibanda and new man Forster Mutizwa steadied the ship and their partnership yielded 51 runs off 72 balls before the former miscued a attempted pull shot to be caught by Mahmadullah off Rubel Islam’s bowling. It brought a sad end to a knock as Sibanda departed for 96 runs off 102 balls.
Chigumbura was needlessly dismissed when he was caught only 3 runs on the board. The former captain was caught by Tamim off a Rubel leaving the hosts needing three for victory.Mutizwa eventually won the match for Zimbabwe with a well crafted 29 runs off 53 balls. He seemed to be looking for the big shot and the opportunity presented itself in the 42nd over when he cut a short ball to the boundary to give the hosts a four wicket victory.
Vitori was named man of the match for his five wicket haul.
Monday 8 August 2011
ZIM GETS DREAM TEST RETURN
BRENDON TAYLOR led Zimbabwe to their first Test victory after an absence of six years. They beat Bangladesh by 131 runs in Harare after putting up a splendid spirited all round performance.
The visitors won the toss and sent Zimbabwe in to bat and they made a first innings total of 370 all out. Hamilton Masakadza top scored with 104 off 244 deliveries while Vusi Sibanda and Brendon Taylor made 78 and 71 respectively. Opener Tino Mawoyo scored 43 runs on his debut after facing 76 balls with Tatenda Taibu chipping in with a valuable 23 runs and nothing much came from the rest of the team with the bat.
Bangladesh’s Hossain Rubel and captain Shakik Ul Hassan were the pick of the bowlers claiming three scalps each. Paceman Islam Rubiul posted figures of two wickets for 106 runs while top spinner Abdul Razzak and Mahmudulla picked up a wicket each.
The visitors were bowled for a 287 runs on day three inside 96.2 overs giving the hosts a lead of 83 runs on the second day. They had opened their batting with Tamim Iqbal and Imrun Kayes but they fell for 15 and 4 runs respectively in the first few overs of their innings. Mohammed Ashraful top scored with 73 runs while Shari Nafees and Shakib Ul Hassan managed half centuries.
Brian Vitori was the pick of the Zimbabwean bowlers as managed to post figures of four wickets for 66 runs. Chris Mpofu and Ray Price claimed to wickets each while Kyle Jarvis and former captain Elton Chigumbura managed a wicket each to conclude the Bangladesh innings.
Zimbabwe started batting their second innings on day three and lost three quick wickets ending the day on 92 runs for four wickets. Taylor(1 05) and Taibu (59) resumed on day four as they posted a fifth wicket stand of 113 runs. Zimbabwe went on to make 291 runs and declared leaving the visitors needing a massive 375 runs for victory.
Resuming from an overnight total of 112 for three on day five, Bangladesh failed to deal with the morning movement of the Harare Sports club wicket. They were bowled out for 244 in the 58th over with Iqbal and Razzak topped scored with 43 runs each while other meaningful contributions came from Kayes,Ashraful and Rahim handing Zimbabwe their dream test return.
Jarvis was the pick of the Zimbabwean bowlers in the second innings as he claimed four wickets for 61 runs while Mpofu was clinical with 3 wickets for 51 in 10 overs. The ever impressive Vitori picked one for 56 runs in 14 overs.
Bowling was so good that the seam bowlers picked up wickets with Vitori, Jarvis and Mpofu claiming fifteen wickets between them while Chigumbura managed four and Price pocketed two wickets. Batting was also impressive with Taylor top scoring with 176, Sibanda 116, Masakadza 110, Taibu 82 while Mawoyo managed 78 runs.
The Zimbabwean team had an exceptional all round performance and it was rather difficult for the commentators to figure out the man of the match. Taylor was named man of the match as he scored a total 176 and took two catches and believably for the fact that he was the architect brains behind the victory.
TAIBU'S CARELESS STATEMENTS
TATENDA TAIBU is one the most senior cricketers in Zimbabwe. A lot of people,particularly the young ones see him as a role model and much worse an inspiration. He has done well for himself he has a legacy to ride on now.
On the eve of Zimbabwe’s return to Test Cricket he made what could be called an ill-advised comment. He said that no progress had been made by the board and cricket was still as bad as before.
Now I am sure the young man feels he has only good intention when he says these things but I am inclined to believe that such a representation would fall short of the truth.
My problem is not with what he had to say. I mean what do I know? I am not directly affected by the current Ozias Bvute led Zimbabwe Cricket from were I stand now and I can’t say that my sources have no self-interest when they speak to me. No one wants to look like the bad guy.
However given the timing, Taibu loses the argument here. On the eve of our return to the highest level of cricket you do not say things of this nature. True or not, there are ways to do these things. My question is, why wait until now? If the situation has been this bad since last August, why choose the day before a moment of pride to trash everyone who is working towards trying to make the game respectable. I am sure that administration has its fair share of mediocrity but not now.
From a management perception point of view this is as they call it, a fail. No fair-minded person will think that any good can come from a statement of this sort from a current senior cricketer.
I like the young man but I am a bit disappointed to be frank. I will just say he was most definitely ill advised advice. Remember this might be true, no one really knows beesides those that are swallowed by the system but I think he miss fired this time around.
On the eve of Zimbabwe’s return to Test Cricket he made what could be called an ill-advised comment. He said that no progress had been made by the board and cricket was still as bad as before.
Now I am sure the young man feels he has only good intention when he says these things but I am inclined to believe that such a representation would fall short of the truth.
My problem is not with what he had to say. I mean what do I know? I am not directly affected by the current Ozias Bvute led Zimbabwe Cricket from were I stand now and I can’t say that my sources have no self-interest when they speak to me. No one wants to look like the bad guy.
However given the timing, Taibu loses the argument here. On the eve of our return to the highest level of cricket you do not say things of this nature. True or not, there are ways to do these things. My question is, why wait until now? If the situation has been this bad since last August, why choose the day before a moment of pride to trash everyone who is working towards trying to make the game respectable. I am sure that administration has its fair share of mediocrity but not now.
From a management perception point of view this is as they call it, a fail. No fair-minded person will think that any good can come from a statement of this sort from a current senior cricketer.
I like the young man but I am a bit disappointed to be frank. I will just say he was most definitely ill advised advice. Remember this might be true, no one really knows beesides those that are swallowed by the system but I think he miss fired this time around.
Wednesday 3 August 2011
TESTING TIME FINALLY UPON US
UTSEYA OUT OF “THE SUPER ELEVEN”
HARARE
Zimbabwe returns to Test cricket today and launches its quest for international reckoning with a one off match against Bangladesh in Harare. The host have been voluntarily absent from the test arena for more than six years.
The match will be more of a historic event for the cricket enthusiasts across the divide. The selection panel has however thrown their last dice and concluded on the eleven men that will carry the country’s hopes. Opener Vusimuzi Sibanda will be expected to start the proceedings for the hosts with Mountaineers top order batsman Tinotenda Mawoyo while world record breaker Hamilton Masakadza, controversial Tatenda Taibu, Craig Ervine and Captain Brendon Taylor finish up the middle order.
Speaking to OFF THE CREASE in an exclusive interview last night Assistant coach Steve Mangongo said he was hopeful that his charges were going to deliver. “We have been working hard and we are ready for this match as you will know its history in the making for us and we would prefer to have a win to go with that” he said.
The former Mountaineers gaffer also said the team had gotten enough preparation from the recently ended South African and Australian A sides tour. “The batsmen were tested by the by some genuine bowling from the Australians and the South Africans as well. I am sure the batters are ready for the action” added Mangongo.
Talking about the bowling aspect of the game he said the bowlers who were preferred were Brian Vitori, Kyle Jarvis. The duo is expected to provide the much needed support to seasoned bowlers Chris Mpofu and Ray Price. “We need twenty wickets, it is my hope that experienced Price, Mpofu and two youngsters Jarvis and Vitori will provide us with just that” he said.
Former captain prosper Utseya was dropped as the technical team opted to go with one spinner and Price was their obvious choice as he is one of the most experienced campaigner. Utseya will have to endure the pain of watching the historic event from the terraces although he is one the players that featured for Zimbabwe in their last test outing.
Mangongo defended the selectors’ decision saying the wicket was going to a fast one hence the opted to go with three seamers. “The wicket is conducive for fast bowlers, its a little greener so it would have made sense for us to go with an extra seamer instead of a spinner” he said.
The technical team also chose Elton Chigumbura to play the role of the sole all rounder. The talented Chigumbura who seems to have been regaining his form will be expected to beef up both the batting and bowling aspects of the team.
He also noted that Taibu’s media showcase had not affected the mood in the camp. “Morale is definitely high in the camp although we had a bit of issues that came out in the media yesterday. We are ready to give our all regardless of these petty issues” said a confidant Mangongo
First Eleven: B.Taylor; V.Sibanda; T. Mawoyo; H.Masakadza; T.Taibu; C.Ervine; E.Chigumbura; R.Price; B.Vitori; K.Jarvis; C.Mpofu
HARARE
Zimbabwe returns to Test cricket today and launches its quest for international reckoning with a one off match against Bangladesh in Harare. The host have been voluntarily absent from the test arena for more than six years.
The match will be more of a historic event for the cricket enthusiasts across the divide. The selection panel has however thrown their last dice and concluded on the eleven men that will carry the country’s hopes. Opener Vusimuzi Sibanda will be expected to start the proceedings for the hosts with Mountaineers top order batsman Tinotenda Mawoyo while world record breaker Hamilton Masakadza, controversial Tatenda Taibu, Craig Ervine and Captain Brendon Taylor finish up the middle order.
Speaking to OFF THE CREASE in an exclusive interview last night Assistant coach Steve Mangongo said he was hopeful that his charges were going to deliver. “We have been working hard and we are ready for this match as you will know its history in the making for us and we would prefer to have a win to go with that” he said.
The former Mountaineers gaffer also said the team had gotten enough preparation from the recently ended South African and Australian A sides tour. “The batsmen were tested by the by some genuine bowling from the Australians and the South Africans as well. I am sure the batters are ready for the action” added Mangongo.
Talking about the bowling aspect of the game he said the bowlers who were preferred were Brian Vitori, Kyle Jarvis. The duo is expected to provide the much needed support to seasoned bowlers Chris Mpofu and Ray Price. “We need twenty wickets, it is my hope that experienced Price, Mpofu and two youngsters Jarvis and Vitori will provide us with just that” he said.
Former captain prosper Utseya was dropped as the technical team opted to go with one spinner and Price was their obvious choice as he is one of the most experienced campaigner. Utseya will have to endure the pain of watching the historic event from the terraces although he is one the players that featured for Zimbabwe in their last test outing.
Mangongo defended the selectors’ decision saying the wicket was going to a fast one hence the opted to go with three seamers. “The wicket is conducive for fast bowlers, its a little greener so it would have made sense for us to go with an extra seamer instead of a spinner” he said.
The technical team also chose Elton Chigumbura to play the role of the sole all rounder. The talented Chigumbura who seems to have been regaining his form will be expected to beef up both the batting and bowling aspects of the team.
He also noted that Taibu’s media showcase had not affected the mood in the camp. “Morale is definitely high in the camp although we had a bit of issues that came out in the media yesterday. We are ready to give our all regardless of these petty issues” said a confidant Mangongo
First Eleven: B.Taylor; V.Sibanda; T. Mawoyo; H.Masakadza; T.Taibu; C.Ervine; E.Chigumbura; R.Price; B.Vitori; K.Jarvis; C.Mpofu
TAIBU ATTACKS ZIM CRICKET ADMINISTRATION
The Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) executive has been exposed by one of its trusted recruits for maladministration. Revelations by former test captain Tatenda Taibu in an extra ordinary press conference yesterday are likely to send tremors in ZC boardrooms.
Just at a crucial press conference that marks the return from a self imposed test censure amid a celebratory atmosphere Taibu spilled the beans when he lashed out at the Ozias Bvute led administration for not implementing good governance and structural professionalism.
The former skipper said nothing has changed from years of turmoil that rocked the country’s cricket administration six years ago adding that players were playing without contracts since last year August.
The former skipper, who took over captaincy from Heath Streak amid protest from a band of 15 senior players in 2003 that torched fires of discord and eventually rendered the country international isolation, also said young players in the current squad, may not speak for fear of victimisation.
ZC, which was dragged into chaos six years ago following a string of negative developments that range from player rebellion to a politicised sport, seemed to have turned a corner when they got the green light to return to play test coupled with the return of former players who had gone on exodus during trying times.
ZC executive has in the past six years been thrown under serous scrutiny over its pedigree to administer and has sometimes been attacked for failing to run the organisation professionally.
"But, lately, there has been general optimism from cricket faithfuls in the country on the future of the game basing on positive developments in recent years but Taibu poured water.
"I don't think much has changed really, the administration is still struggling to run cricket in the country well," Taibu said candidly. "For example, the guys haven't been paid their match fees from August last year up to now. At the moment, I am sitting here without a contract, no one has got a contract; those are all things that the administration is struggling to deal with."
"The franchise system has all along been thought to be able to contract and pay players, the issue of central contracts has never been clarified or resolved. All players who play for Zimbabwe must be contracted to a franchise, which means they earn some form of income, but Taibu indicated that may just be a form of bandaging a wound that really needs surgery. "When you walk around and you see a house that's painted well, you will think that house is really standing strong but if does not have a strong foundation, it will fall down one day or another," he said. "Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has just painted a house that's about to fall.
"Taibu who earlier on this year turned down an offer to captain the misfiring team said the players had tried to seek certainty from ZC but he had kept his distance from the subject because of his reputation as a pot-stirrer. "It's hard for me as a player with the history that I've got in Zimbabwe cricket to go up and mention these things," he said. "We've tried to go through the right structures, the captain and the manager but nothing has been done to date."
Taibu decided to break his silence to the media yesterday and said he was not afraid of the repercussions. Instead, he felt it was his responsibility, as one of the senior men in the side, to be the mouthpiece for some of the juniors. "I like telling the truth, I know most of the other guys are scared of being targeted and they won't be able to come out and say it in the open but I am not scared of being targeted. I think it's important that I can stand up for the younger guys who don't have a voice."
Taibu explained that it was the patriotism and passion in the ranks, and that he is proud to be involved with men of such character. "I can't falter the coaching staff, they've worked really hard and I can't falter the guys. They come in day in and day out but they are not getting much support from the administration unfortunately," he said. "To see the guys running in and bowling and hitting a lot of balls in the nets it really shows that the guys have got the country at heart. It is two days before a Test match and no one has got a contract, no one knows what we will get paid, but the guys love their country and they can't see cricket drop like that.
Zimbabwe cricket may be in turmoil but there is also pride and the return to the game's premier format is something the players are cherishing. "It will be sad to see Zimbabwe cricket die, after all the people that have worked hard for us to get Test cricket back, I think it will be a waste if we let it die."
Taibu believes the game is still very much alive and the upcoming Test matches, against Bangladesh, Pakistan and New Zealand, will only help cricket thrive in spite of its structures. "When you play Test cricket, you improve faster," he said. "As a batsman you spend more time at the crease, as a bowler you learn how to get people out, how to be disciplined and when to attack and when not to.
Captain Brendon Taylor who could neither confirm nor deny the alleged maladministration said his team was not affected by the anything as their biggest target was that of returning to test cricket. “We will not be affected by any of this, I am pretty sure the guys are professional enough to put such issues aside for now”
Just at a crucial press conference that marks the return from a self imposed test censure amid a celebratory atmosphere Taibu spilled the beans when he lashed out at the Ozias Bvute led administration for not implementing good governance and structural professionalism.
The former skipper said nothing has changed from years of turmoil that rocked the country’s cricket administration six years ago adding that players were playing without contracts since last year August.
The former skipper, who took over captaincy from Heath Streak amid protest from a band of 15 senior players in 2003 that torched fires of discord and eventually rendered the country international isolation, also said young players in the current squad, may not speak for fear of victimisation.
ZC, which was dragged into chaos six years ago following a string of negative developments that range from player rebellion to a politicised sport, seemed to have turned a corner when they got the green light to return to play test coupled with the return of former players who had gone on exodus during trying times.
ZC executive has in the past six years been thrown under serous scrutiny over its pedigree to administer and has sometimes been attacked for failing to run the organisation professionally.
"But, lately, there has been general optimism from cricket faithfuls in the country on the future of the game basing on positive developments in recent years but Taibu poured water.
"I don't think much has changed really, the administration is still struggling to run cricket in the country well," Taibu said candidly. "For example, the guys haven't been paid their match fees from August last year up to now. At the moment, I am sitting here without a contract, no one has got a contract; those are all things that the administration is struggling to deal with."
"The franchise system has all along been thought to be able to contract and pay players, the issue of central contracts has never been clarified or resolved. All players who play for Zimbabwe must be contracted to a franchise, which means they earn some form of income, but Taibu indicated that may just be a form of bandaging a wound that really needs surgery. "When you walk around and you see a house that's painted well, you will think that house is really standing strong but if does not have a strong foundation, it will fall down one day or another," he said. "Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has just painted a house that's about to fall.
"Taibu who earlier on this year turned down an offer to captain the misfiring team said the players had tried to seek certainty from ZC but he had kept his distance from the subject because of his reputation as a pot-stirrer. "It's hard for me as a player with the history that I've got in Zimbabwe cricket to go up and mention these things," he said. "We've tried to go through the right structures, the captain and the manager but nothing has been done to date."
Taibu decided to break his silence to the media yesterday and said he was not afraid of the repercussions. Instead, he felt it was his responsibility, as one of the senior men in the side, to be the mouthpiece for some of the juniors. "I like telling the truth, I know most of the other guys are scared of being targeted and they won't be able to come out and say it in the open but I am not scared of being targeted. I think it's important that I can stand up for the younger guys who don't have a voice."
Taibu explained that it was the patriotism and passion in the ranks, and that he is proud to be involved with men of such character. "I can't falter the coaching staff, they've worked really hard and I can't falter the guys. They come in day in and day out but they are not getting much support from the administration unfortunately," he said. "To see the guys running in and bowling and hitting a lot of balls in the nets it really shows that the guys have got the country at heart. It is two days before a Test match and no one has got a contract, no one knows what we will get paid, but the guys love their country and they can't see cricket drop like that.
Zimbabwe cricket may be in turmoil but there is also pride and the return to the game's premier format is something the players are cherishing. "It will be sad to see Zimbabwe cricket die, after all the people that have worked hard for us to get Test cricket back, I think it will be a waste if we let it die."
Taibu believes the game is still very much alive and the upcoming Test matches, against Bangladesh, Pakistan and New Zealand, will only help cricket thrive in spite of its structures. "When you play Test cricket, you improve faster," he said. "As a batsman you spend more time at the crease, as a bowler you learn how to get people out, how to be disciplined and when to attack and when not to.
Captain Brendon Taylor who could neither confirm nor deny the alleged maladministration said his team was not affected by the anything as their biggest target was that of returning to test cricket. “We will not be affected by any of this, I am pretty sure the guys are professional enough to put such issues aside for now”
Tuesday 2 August 2011
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