By Trevor Makonyonga
Two senior Zimbabwe cricket players have tested positive for Corona virus.
The two, Regis Chakabva and Tymicen Maruma, had already been left out of the squad currently touring Pakistan.
In a statement, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) confirmed this development.
The statement read, “Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) can confirm Zimbabwe international players Regis Chakabva and Timycen Maruma – who are both not part of the side currently touring Pakistan – tested positive for COVID-19. The two were room-mates for a week while in a bio-secure bubble set upfor players placed on standby at the ZC Academy House in Harare.”
ZC also said that two back room staff also tested positive.
“Two other members of staff who were providing support services at the same facility have also tested positive for the coronavirus following a screening and testing exercise for those who came into close contact with Chakabva and Maruma.”
Chakabva and Maruma are currently in self isolation in line with the COVID-19 guidelines.
Meanwhile, captain Chamu Chibhabha has outlined how the Pakistan tour is crucial for the country with regards to the World Cup.
Speaking in Pakistan, Chibhabha said, “It is very crucial that we play well. Super League games are very important when you consider the fact that we have to qualify for the World Cup. We would rather qualify directly as opposed to having to play in thequalifiers because that’s a lot of pressure. So we would love to get a couple of wins under our belt, which makes lifeeasier for us to qualify for the World Cup.”
Chibhabha also said that he was expecting high scoring encounters.
“From our experience in 2015, we know we are going to play on a flat wicket – some might have a bit of spin on them, slow and turning, but we are expecting a lot of runs on the board in this series. Obviously, it’s going to be hot but it’s not as bad as we expected. We will also be playing day-night matches, so dew is going to play a huge factor.”
The two sides will square off in three ODIs and T20i from end October to November.
The ODI series, which will be part of the inaugural ICC Cricket World Cup Super League, is pencilled in for 30 October and 1 and 3 November.
The T20I matches are scheduled for 7, 8 and 10 November
Zimbabwe Squad for Pakistan Tour:
Chamu Chibhabha (captain), Faraz Akram, Ryan Burl, Brian Chari, Tendai Chatara, Elton Chigumbura, Tendai Chisoro, Craig Ervine, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Wessly Madhevere, Wellington Masakadza, Carl Mumba, Richmond Mutumbami, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Sikandar Raza, Milton Shumba, Brendan Taylor, Donald Tiripano, Sean Williams
