Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
The 2023 World Cup Qualifier stars this Sunday with hosts Zimbabwe facing Nepal at Harare Sports Club, while the West Indies will face the USA at Takashinga Cricket Club.
Zimbabwe hosted another qualifier in 2018 but ultimately failed to progress to the world cup. However, the team is determined to overcome past hurdles.
Chevron’s coach Dave Houghton told the ZBC News, “2018 still haunts everyone. I wasn’t here. but I see every day how the guys are determined to make sure they correct that. It’s not about compensation, but we just need to continue with our progress and make sure we do not under-estimate the opposition.”
The Chevrons have no injury worries in their camp and will be at full strength for the start of the tournament.
Elsewhere, former world champions West Indies are approaching the Qualifier with caution.
“Of course, we are largely expected to win but the gap between the top teams and the other teams is very small these days and we have to approach each match with caution and control the things we can, but on top of it we have to play as a team,” said coach Darren Sammy.
Two matches will be played each day in the group stages.
The top three teams from each group with progress to the Super Six Stage of the tournament where the top two teams will qualify for the World Cup.
