Zimbabwe return to Tests

Hosts optimistic against Bangladesh despite 6 years’ absence.

HARARE:

Coach Alan Butcher is convinced Zimbabwe will do themselves justice on their return to Test cricket, after a six-year absence, against Bangladesh.

However, there is an understandable air of anxiety hanging over Harare.

“We have made considerable progress in the last six months and I’m convinced we’ll do well,” said Butcher.

Zimbabwe’s chairman of selectors and former Test captain Alistair Campbell has asked that people judge his side’s performances on the basis of three tours - with Pakistan and New Zealand following the series against Bangladesh - rather than after this one Test.

The Zimbabwe squad includes six with previous experience in Tests, including Tatenda Taibu, Ray Price and Hamilton Masakadza.

A Zimbabwe XI pulled off a surprise victory against Bangladesh by four wickets in a three-day match.

Bangladesh have won only three and drawn six of their 68 Tests played, while Zimbabwe have managed eight and drawn 26 from 83.

But since 2006 Bangladesh have won 21 out of 26 ODIs played between them and are considered serious opposition by all other countries.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 3^rd, 2011.