Sports
Chevrons Eye Victory In Pakistan Tri Series Opener, Ebrahim Confident Ahead Of World Cup Preparations
The Zimbabwe senior men’s cricket team, the Chevrons, head into today’s tri-series opener against Pakistan with a bold and unambiguous mission: to win. And the team’s leadership is making no secret of that ambition.
Assistant coach Dion Ebrahim, speaking on the eve of the match, expressed confidence in his side’s readiness, stressing that Zimbabwe are not in Lahore to merely make up the numbers.
“We’re looking to win,” Ebrahim declared. “We’ve come to this tri-series with the ambition to win and compete in every game. This is a key step in our World Cup preparations, and our intent is to start by winning this tournament.”
Ebrahim described the squad as a well-gelled unit that has steadily built momentum over the past year. He believes the team’s cohesion and hunger will shine through in the high-pressure environment of a tri-series, also involving New Zealand.
“We’ve been together for over a year now. The team is settled, hungry, and excited for what lies ahead,” he added.
Zimbabwe could also enjoy a strategic advantage under the Lahore lights, thanks to the PSL experience of senior players like Sikandar Raza, Brendan Taylor, and the injured Blessing Muzarabani. Their insights, said Ebrahim, have been “invaluable” in shaping the team’s tactical approach.
Asked about Pakistan’s star studded lineup, Ebrahim stressed the need to maintain focus across the board.
“In T20 cricket, you can’t zero in on one player,” he said. “We respect world-class talent, but we have strategies in place for every situation. It’s about keeping our eyes on the game, not just the names.”
Zimbabwe’s pace attack, a mix of height, variety, and raw skill, will be central to their campaign. Ebrahim spoke highly of spearhead Richard Ngarava, calling him a world class bowler and praising the dynamic energy brought in by the younger seamers.
“We have a diverse seam attack with different angles and strengths. It’s an exciting balance, and we’re eager to let them loose,” he said, though he admitted Muzarabani’s absence due to injury is a blow.
Reflecting on his own transformation from player to coach, Ebrahim said it was his commitment to continuous improvement, both personally and for the team, that drives him.
“The passion to push this team forward and strive for excellence is what keeps us going,” he said.
With a steadfast mindset and focused preparation, the Chevrons enter the tri-series aiming to deliver a statement of intent ahead of the World Cup. Now, they just need to back their bold words with action on the field.