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Lovemore Banda

THERE has been a turnaround in Zimbabwean cricket in recent times.

The senior national team shocked Sri Lanka in their own backyard by winning the ODI series 3-2.

Lovemore Banda, manager of the Zimbabwe A team that is in Dubai to play the UAE in five ODI series, gave credit to the current setup at Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC).

“There have been a few things that have happened within the setup. The coming in of former ICC chief financial officer Faisal Hasnain as the new managing director of Zimbabwe Cricket is one of the reasons,” Banda said.

“His appointment has had an impact on cricket in Zimbabwe. We also have the appointment of former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak as head coach and former South African greats Makhaya Ntini as bowling coach and Lance Klusener as batting coach.

Faisal Hasnain

“The appointment of Tatenda Taibu, former Zimbabwe captain, as convenor of selectors and the return of two players, Brendan Taylor and Kyle Jarvis. So all these people have created a positive impact on Zimbabwean cricket. The results are showing and we just hope we can continue with it as we go forward,” added Banda.

Zimbabwe A coach, Douglas Hondo, said the current series against UAE is important as most players will want to stake a claim for spots in the national team for the World Cup qualifiers which Zimbabwe will be hosting next year.  —  Khaleej Times.