The Sunday Mail
ACTING President Phekezela Mphoko has urged Zimbabwe Cricket to come up with measures to quell the poor performance that is currently being experienced by the national team during their ongoing series against minnows Afghanistan in Dubai.
In his speech read by the Minister of State in his office Honourable Tabitha Kanengoni-Malinga at the arrival of the International Cricket Council Twenty20 trophy yesterday, the acting president said that Government is closely following the goings on at the association.
“Government follows closely the performance of the national cricket in deference also to the fact that His Excellency President R.G Mugabe is the Patron of Zimbabwe Cricket,” he said.
“Of late, results on the pitch have been a source of anguish to the whole nation.
“The victory of the Chevrons and indeed of any national team generates national pride, a sense of patriotism and cultivates solidarity.
“I am sure appropriate remedial interventions are being undertaken to staunch the further decline of our team’s performance,” said Cde Mphoko.
The trophy arrived in the country yesterday, marking the start of its African Safari.
The trophy is currently on a global tour wherein it is expected to visit all the 12 countries that will be taking part in the ICC Twenty20 tournament which is slated for India from March 11 to April 3.
During its journey, the trophy will be on display at domestic and international matches, as well as at various public places, which will enable fans to capture special moments with the most prestigious silverware in the shortest format of the world game.
The trophy, which will fly to Victoria Falls today to conclude its tour of the country, is being accompanied by ICC Promotions Officer, Raymond Palmer.
The trophy’s next stop will be Cape Town, South Africa.
The trophy reception event was also graced by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport and Recreation, Dr Chipare who was representing Minister Makhosini Hlongwane; the Mayor of Harare Councilor Bernard Manyenyeni; SRC Acting Chairman Edward Siwela; SRC Director-General and Rtd Colonel Charles Nhemachena, amongst other delegates.
