Zimbabwe Cricket confirms schedule for home series against Bangladesh

After much speculation, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) have finally confirmed its schedule for the team’s upcoming all-format series against Bangladesh. The confirmation from ZC had come on Tuesday, June 22. Earlier it was reported that due to surge in cases of COVID-19, cricket and other sporting activities came to a grinding halt in Zimbabwe.

With the Women’s series against Pakistan cancelled, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials were waiting for a confirmation from ZC, which they have now received.

There is a slight tweak in the schedule as initially the teams were supposed to play two Tests. But now the teams will play just one Test and play three ODIs and T20Is each. All the matches are scheduled to take place in Harare with no crowds permitted due to the pandemic situation. While the only Test will start on July 7, the ODI and T20I series will commence on July 16 and 23 respectively with the tour concluding on 27th of the month.

While Bangladesh were last seen playing an international series against Sri Lanka, their rivals Zimbabwe last played a series against Afghanistan. Both the teams have played a decent amount of cricket with Bangladesh marginally ahead, as they comfortably beat Sri Lanka 2-1 in the ODI series.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe drew the Test series and lost the T20I series against Afghanistan, amidst few senior players not playing due to injuries. Now with the injured players set to return, the Zimbabwe squad will look more complete and strong.

Bangladesh will look to solidify their position in the ICC CWC Super League

Bangladesh who beat Sri Lanka comfortably in the ODI series and gained 50 points, will look to cement their position at the top by beating Zimbabwe. The Asian team is currently number one having played nine matches as compared to their African rivals who are 11^th in the points table having won just a game in three outings.

With Mushfiqur Rahim, Tamim Iqbal, and Liton Das in good form, the team will surely look to beat Zimbabwe by putting on some consistent performance in three ODIs.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe will be pleased to see the form of Sean Williams and allrounder Ryan Burl. With Sikandar Raza and Prince Masvaure too finding form, Zimbabwe can hope to give a tough fight to their Asian rivals and hope to add points to their World Cup Super League tally.