CHEVRONS captain Craig Ervine struck a balance between realism and resolve during a pre-series press conference at Harare Sports Club, addressing the team’s recent struggles, transition phase, and strategy ahead of the three-match ODI series against Ireland starting Friday.
The series, part of Zimbabwe’s broader preparation for the co-hosted 2027 ODI World Cup with South Africa and Namibia, comes on the heels of a Test loss to Ireland earlier this month and a mixed run of form in white-ball cricket.
Ervine acknowledged the frustration of Zimbabwe’s recent Test defeat, where a young side failed to capitalize on key moments.
“It’s something we have to put our finger on why we aren’t killing those moments when we’re on top,” Chevrons skipper said, praising the fight shown by newcomers like Nick Welch and Johnathan Campbell.
The Test squad’s inexperience contrasted sharply with the ODI lineup, which features seasoned campaigners like Sikandar Raza.
The absence of all-rounder Sean Williams, described as an “integral” figure, poses a challenge. Ervine emphasized adaptability, highlighting Wellington Masakadza’s versatility and uncapped Tony Munyonga’s inclusion: “Tony adds power down the order and contributes with the ball. His Pro 50 performances earned this opportunity”.
With Zimbabwe winning only one of their last six matches against Ireland, Ervine addressed growing scrutiny over the team’s rebuild.
“We’re sticking to our processes,” he insisted, highlighting intensified training to simulate high-pressure scenarios.
“The intensity has gone up, guys are training in uncomfortable environments to bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket.”
When asked if ODIs suit Zimbabwe better than Tests, Ervine pointed to the format’s balance: “ODIs give us time to work out tempo. Our white-ball success has been stronger, but we need to stop losing wickets cheaply.”
Zimbabwe’s batting frailties, evident in their collapse to 44/5 against Afghanistan in December 2024, remain a concern, with Ervine stressing “game awareness” to anchor innings.
On Harare’s pitch conditions, Ervine predicted a “batter-friendly” surface but cautioned against unpredictability. His return, alongside Raza, adds stability to a squad in flux. “Senior players’ responsibilities don’t change and pressure is part of leading,” he said, downplaying added expectations after missing the Test due to personal commitments.
The series holds significance beyond bilateral bragging rights. For Zimbabwe, it’s a chance to build momentum ahead of a Test in England and the 2027 World Cup. For Ireland, it’s an opportunity to cement their growing red-ball credentials in white-ball cricket. As Ervine concluded: “We need a serious win to validate our progress. The hunger is there.”
Schedule
– 1st ODI: February 14, Harare Sports Club
– 2nd ODI: February 16, Harare Sports Club
– 3rd ODI: February 18, Harare Sports Club
