ZIMBABWE head coach Justin Sammons believes the upcoming three match T20I series against world champions India presents the perfect opportunity for his players to measure themselves against the very best in international cricket.
Speaking ahead of the opening match at Harare Sports Club this afternoon, Sammons said the series would provide a clear indication of where his squad stands while also offering a platform for several players to showcase their talent on the biggest stage.
“It gives guys an understanding of exactly where they’re at at this moment in time in comparing themselves to the best,” Sammons said.
The coach is particularly eager to see Zimbabwe’s pace attack test itself against India’s formidable batting line-up, singling out Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava as players capable of making an impact.
“I’d love for a lot of the younger players and some of the other guys to really show off the ability that they have once again to the best,” Sammons said.
“And hopefully that opens up doors for them.”
Sammons believes captain Sikandar Raza’s vast experience will also be invaluable during the series. Raza became Zimbabwe’s most capped international cricketer on Sunday when he made his 314th appearance for his country, surpassing Hamilton Masakadza’s previous record of 313 matches.
“On Raza, he obviously got huge experience. He’s played against a lot of these guys and brings a lot of knowledge to the table,” Sammons said.
“We’re very fortunate to have that in our group. Guys can obviously tap into that knowledge, which is great.”
While excited by the challenge ahead, Sammons admitted Zimbabwe still have areas to improve following the recent series against Bangladesh.
Fielding remains a major concern after several dropped catches proved costly.
“From that Bangladesh series we let ourselves down with the catching. I think if we had taken the catches we would have come out tops, which meant the bowlers were creating opportunities,” he said.
He also called on his bowlers to remain disciplined and his batters to make the most of promising starts.
“Whenever we were simple we were best. Whenever we tried to do too much we strayed with the ball,” Sammons said.
“With the bat we need to finish our innings better. It’s as simple as that really.”
Zimbabwe Cricket has recalled all-rounder Wessly Madhevere for the series, while wicketkeeper batter Tafadzwa Tsiga has earned his maiden T20I call-up. Fast bowler Newman Nyamhuri also returns after recovering from the injury that ruled him out of the Bangladesh T20Is, while Tanaka Chivanga retains his place after impressing as Nyamhuri’s replacement.
The trio replace Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa and Tashinga Musekiwa in the 15-man squad.
The three match series gets underway today before concluding with matches on Saturday and Sunday, all at Harare Sports Club.
