Imagine the possibility of Zimbabwe winning the 2015 ICC World Cup trophy.
By Munyaradzi Madzokere
No one, not even the players, let alone the coach, had ever whispered words suggesting that Zimbabwe are going to the global cricket showpiece set for Australia and New Zealand next year with a mind to win it.
But that was before the iconic trophy itself came to Zimbabwe.
A few days ago the ICC World Cup trophy was in the country and the senior national team players, notably Brendan Taylor, Prosper Utseya and Hamilton Masakadza, had an opportunity to hold it and even hoist it up.
The iconic silverware arrived in the country on September 30 through the majestic tourist town of Victoria Falls before gracing the city of Harare the following day where a welcome ceremony ensued at Harare Sports Club.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Tabeth Kanengoni-Malinga said: “This is a rare moment of pride that Zimbabwe is being recognised as a full member of the International Cricket Council.
“Zimbabwe Cricket, the ball is in your court, you have seen the trophy and this confirms that the tournament will certainly be held.
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“We hope that this trophy will come back to Zimbabwe after this tour, therefore your preparations for the World Cup must intensify in earnest.”
The trophy is touring all the countries that will take part at the cricket World Cup. Zimbabwe is the 12th nation to receive it and it has since left for United Arab Emirates before winding up in West Indies.
Zimbabwe’s chances of lifting the cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year are just an obscure dream.
Speaking to this publication barely a week ago, head coach Stephen Mangongo revealed that because of our ranking we could only hope to sneak into the quarterfinals and anything else beyond that would be a miracle.
After receiving the trophy in Victoria Falls, former captain Prosper Utseya was quoted saying that after this experience, the team was now much more inspired to bring home the World Cup trophy.
Save for a sensational “Super Six” stage achievement during the 1999 World Cup in England where they famously defeated India and South Africa, the Zimbabwe cricket team has perpetually faltered at the World Cup.
Currently the Zimbabwe team is slowly getting on its feet and on paper, is a far-cry from a team capable of winning the ultimate cricket crown.
However, the return of top batsman Craig Ervine and veteran all-rounder Gregory Lamb could further bolster the Zimbabwe squad ahead of the World Cup.
Zimbabwe is in Group B of the 2015 ICC World Cup alongside India, Pakistan, West Indies, Ireland, UAE and South Africa.
