We have opted for a fantasy cricket team based on the recent performances, overall impact, and credit points.
Pitch Report
Historically the batters have enjoyed their time at the Queens Sports Club in Harare. That said, the wicket also tends to play slow and low as the match progresses.
Weather Report
An odd shower or two is predicted on the match day.
Teams
Probable XI for Zimbabwe: Regis Chakabva (wk), Wesley Madhevere, Craig Ervine (c), Ryan Burl, Tendai Chatara, Luke Jongwe, Brandon Mavuta, Sikandar Raza, Milton Shumba, Donald Tiripano, Tanaka Chivanga
Probable XI for van Namibia: Divan la Cock, Craig Williams (c), Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Gerhard Erasmus, David Wiese, Ruben Trumpelmann, Zane Green (wk), Jan Frylinck, Pikky Ya France, Bernard Scholtz, Tangeni Lungameni
Players to Watch Out for
Although David Wiese couldn’t do much in the opening encounter, he will remain Namibia’s biggest hope. Before the ongoing series against Zimbabwe, he had scored 125 runs at 41.66 and picked 2 wickets in his last five T20Is. He also has the ability to hit long sixes, which generates bonus fantasy points.
Craig Ervine might not go hammer and tongs but often finds smart ways to accumulate runs at a decent rate. His 55 off 39 balls was instrumental in helping the hosts win the first match.
Sikandar Raza’s all-round contributions have often helped fantasy players. Although he went wicketless in the previous game, he added 37 runs with the willow. Also, in the recent T20 series against South Africa, he managed 129 runs and bagged 5 wickets as well.
Although the Player of the Match award went to Craig Ervine, it was Milton Shumba’s three-wicket haul that turned the match in the favour of Zimbabwe. He is also a capable batter, who is used as a floater.
Ruben Trumpelmann didn’t pick any wicket in the opening match. That said, his ability to swing and seam the ball got him a bunch of wickets in the World T20 in 2021.
Donald Tiripano and Tendai Chatara open the bowling and also come back to operate in the death overs. Given their experience, fantasy players could be handsomely rewarded going forward.
Despite Namibia’s loss, Divan la Cock will be high on confidence after his 43-ball 63. He also scored 15 and 70 in the recently concluded unofficial ODI series against Ireland A.
Match Preview
Although Zimbabwe are the stronger team and will be the favourites, Namibia proved in the opening game that they will be no pushovers. Both sides have plenty of all-rounders in their ranks that are capable of winning games single-handedly for their respective teams.
Time: 19 May, 7.30 PM IST
