The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
THE Chevrons have been handed a tricky draw for next month’s International Cricket Council (ICC) 2023 World Cup Qualifiers.
Zimbabwe, who are the hosts, have been placed in Group A alongside the West Indies, Netherlands, Nepal, and the United States of America.
Group B will comprise Sri Lanka, Ireland, Scotland, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
According to the rules of the tournament, which is slated for June 18 to July 9 2023, the top three teams from each group will progress to the Super Six stage, where each team will play three matches against the teams they did not meet during the group stage.
All points won in the groups will be carried over to the Super Six stage, apart from those gained against the bottom two from each group.
Zimbabwe begin their campaign with a date against Nepal in the opening match of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023 at Harare Sports Club on June 18.
Two days later, the Chevrons will face the Netherlands at the same venue.
On June 24, Zimbabwe and the West Indies will lock horns, again at Harare Sports Club, in what should be the biggest fixture of Group A.
Zimbabwe’s last group fixture will be against the USA on June 26.
Other Group A matches will be played at Takashinga Cricket Club in Harare, while Bulawayo will host Group B fixtures at Queens Sports Club and Bulawayo Athletic Club.
The Super Six stage will commence on June 29, while the bottom two teams from each group will compete in the playoffs.
Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) chairperson, Tavengwa Mukuhlani, believes Zimbabwe is ready to host the ICC qualifiers.
“We are looking forward to an unforgettable treat of great, entertaining, and competitive cricket,” said the ZC boss.
“This is something that is guaranteed considering the quality of the teams participating in the tournament.
“Apart from the magic that the game itself is promising, this event presents us with an incredible opportunity to showcase our country.
“There is the warmth of our people, the breath-taking beauty of our country and our tourist attractions,” he said.
