Zim in memorable Tri-Series

Sport
The last two weeks have been memorable for Zimbabwe’s cricket despite winning just one and losing three in a Tri-Series against Australia and South Africa.

The last two weeks have been memorable for Zimbabwe’s cricket despite winning just one and losing three in a Tri-Series against Australia and South Africa.

By our staff

Zimbabwe were seemingly overwhelmed by the occasion, starting off in the worst possible manner with a 198 runs thumping loss to the Aussies.

Stephen Mangongo’s men then improved a little to lose by 61 runs to neighbours South Africa as spinner Prosper Utseya bowled his name into the elite league of gentlemen who have claimed ODI hat-tricks, albeit in a losing cause.

The next match was one match which will always be reference point for Zimbabwe cricket for a long time to come.

First of all, Zimbabwe restricted the Aussies to a 209 for nine score but few people gave them a chance against a team they had failed to beat for 31 years.

Fortunately, the gods smiled at the Chevrons as they caused a major upset and made headlines all over the world as they scampered to an unforgettable three -wicket triumph with Utseya and Chigumbura steering the team to a famous win.

Although Zimbabwe lost their final match to the Proteas, no one really cared as the win against Australia lingered on.

For Mangongo, a new coach who was increasingly becoming unpopular for his methods and philosophy, everything was forgiven.

His determination to fix up the Zimbabwe top order batting was admirable, and gave as many players as possible a chance to shine