THE Mukuru-sponsored Zimbabwe Chevrons begin their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign this morning with a key Group B clash against Oman in Colombo, as the team targets qualification for the Super 8 stage.
Head coach Justin Sammons has made it clear that progressing beyond the group phase is the immediate objective and believes the players are well prepared to compete at the highest level.
“The team is excited. We aim to get out of the group and play in the Super 8. It would be an incredible achievement. The way you do it is to win one ball at a time and every moment,” Sammons said.
Zimbabwe head into the tournament encouraged by a convincing 29-run warm-up victory over the Netherlands, where Ryan Burl struck a half-century and the bowling attack impressed through Richard Ngarava with three wickets. In comparison, Graeme Cremer and Wellington Masakadza picked up two wickets each.
The technical team also used an earlier match against Oman to study their opponents and gather useful tactical information.
Sammons believes the preparation period in Colombo has helped players sharpen their strengths ahead of the global showpiece.
“This period now, these eight days that we had before the start were brilliant. And as well as the period that we’ve had just for the guys to hone in and try to master their strengths as much as possible,” Sammons added.
He has urged the players to trust their ability and remain calm when pressure builds during the competition.
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza, currently ranked the number one T20I all-rounder, leads a balanced Mukuru-backed squad that blends experienced campaigners and emerging talent.
