Rajput gets Chevrons job

26 Aug, 2018 - 00:08 0 Views

The Sunday Mail

ZIMBABWE have confirmed Lalchand Rajput’s appointment as permanent head coach of the men’s national side, three months after hiring him in interim capacity.

Rajput replaces Heath Streak, who was sacked alongside his entire support staff following the failed 2019 World Cup qualifying campaign, and remains in legal dispute with Zimbabwe Cricket. ZC did not provide details on Rajput’s contract term, with a spokesperson only describing it as “long-term” but indicated Rajput would remain in charge for the 2020 World T20 and beyond.

“We are targeting qualification for the next T20 and 50-over World Cup tournaments and we believe Lalchand has the pedigree and experience to build a young side and help us achieve our goals,” Tavengwa Mukuhlani, ZC chairman said.

Rajput has already overseen Zimbabwe’s participation in a T20 triangular series involving Australia and Pakistan and a five-match ODI series against Pakistan. Zimbabwe lost all nine matches they played across those series but had the challenge of a depleted squad. Five big-name players — Brendan Taylor, Graeme Cremer, Sikandar Raza, Craig Ervine and Sean Williams — opted to sit out because of non-payment of salaries.

So far, Rajput has no complaints with the Zimbabwean set-up and expressed his desire to get the team back on track in his time at the helm.

“ It is an honour and privilege to work with Zimbabwe Cricket and I am really pleased to be given this opportunity to take this team to the next level, to work hard and ensure we make a difference in the coming years,” he said. In a separate interview with ZC, Rajput said he was enthused by the return of the senior players.

“The biggest challenge is that I want to get the team where it was earlier because the team has fantastic players who have done really well, to have a full squad will be excellent,” he said. “They will bring additional strength and confidence to the team. The likes of Brendan Taylor, Sean Williams and Craig Ervine — their coming back means a great deal.”

Rajput’s first assignment as permanent head coach will be a limited-overs tour to South Africa at the end of the September before a two-Test, three ODI series in Bangladesh in October-November. Zimbabwe are not scheduled to play any home matches until at least July 2019. — Crininfo.

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