Zimbabwe's under-19 cricket team is skipping Christmas. They start a tri-series against Pakistan and Afghanistan on December 25th. This is their final prep for the ICC Under-19 World Cup, which they will host next year. Their head coach, Elton Chigumbura, and captain, Simbarashe Mudzengerere, are leading the squad.
Coach Chigumbura says the team is already well prepared from prior matches. They have faced teams like South Africa and Bangladesh to gain international experience. He views this holiday series as a final polishing step before the main tournament. Captain Mudzengerere agrees, calling the sacrifice necessary to chase their World Cup goals.
The captain notes the advantage of playing a home World Cup, knowing the local conditions. He says team morale is high, especially working with Chigumbura, a former national star they all idolized. For these players, the festive season is just background noise. Their real focus is on the field.
Coach Chigumbura says the team is already well prepared from prior matches. They have faced teams like South Africa and Bangladesh to gain international experience. He views this holiday series as a final polishing step before the main tournament. Captain Mudzengerere agrees, calling the sacrifice necessary to chase their World Cup goals.
The captain notes the advantage of playing a home World Cup, knowing the local conditions. He says team morale is high, especially working with Chigumbura, a former national star they all idolized. For these players, the festive season is just background noise. Their real focus is on the field.
