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Tuskers coach Wayne James

Ngqabutho Moyo Sports Reporter
BULAWAYO cricket team Matabeleland Tuskers clash with defending champions Mountaineers  in the first stage of this year’s edition of the Logan Cup at Queens Sports Club today.Matabeleland Tuskers, who have won three consecutive titles since the 2010-2011 season, are the only team to defend the Logan Cup title since the start of the franchise-era before Mountaineers ended their stranglehold last season.

Tuskers coach Wayne James yesterday said he is confident in his squad particularly after a very good one day game which saw them defeat Mountaineers in their Pro-50 championship match by 70 runs on Sunday.

“We had a good result in our pro-50 one day game on Sunday, we’ll maintain the same squad because we’ve several good players like Sean Williams who scored 100 runs, the new captain Goodwill Mamhiyo, Luke Jongwe and Nkosana Mpofu.

“We’ve talented players and if we can manage to string five good performances from the squad, I’m sure we can win the match,” said James.

Matabeleland Tuskers notched 261/6 in 50 overs while visitors Mountaineers scored 191/8 in their 50 overs.

On the other side Shepherd Makunura, who took over from Gary Brent at the Mutare-based franchise during the pre-season, said despite their loss, their main priority is to defend the Logan Cup title.

“Obviously we’d want to do well in all competitions but our main priority is to retain the Logan Cup title. It’s no secret that the Logan Cup is the most prestigious competition on the domestic calendar and we’d want to make sure it remains in our trophy cabinet,” Makunura said.

The former coach at the now defunct Southern Rocks franchise said he had settled well in his new role and was confident his charges would do well as they had retained most of their players.

“I think I’ve managed to settle well in my new role at Mountaineers mainly because I’ve worked with most of the players at the franchise at one time or another during their careers,” he said.

Mountaineers started the campaign with a loss to Matabeleland Tuskers at Queens Sports Club and will be at their best to win back lost pride today.

Makunura acknowledged the threat posed by Tuskers in their opening match.

“Our first match wasn’t easy at all, Tuskers are a very good side and they’ve made some very good signings in Brian Vitori, Luke Jongwe and Richmond Mutumbami. They’re a tough side to beat in their own backyard and it will obviously be a tough match but I’ve confidence in the ability of my players to defend our title,” he said.

Meanwhile, in the other encounter in the Logan Cup today, Mashonaland Eagles hope to do a double over Mid-West Rhinos after winning their Pro50 Championship at Old Hararians on Sunday by five wickets.

Fixtures

Mash Eagles v MidWest Rhinos    (Old Hararians), Matabeleland Tuskers v Mountaineers (Queens Sports Club)