Zimbabwe Cricket has adjusted the schedule for the T20I and ODI series against Afghanistan, relocating key matches to weekends to increase fan attendance. The first T20I will now begin on December 11, followed by ODIs starting December 17. Additionally, Zimbabwe will host a Boxing Day Test and a New Year’s Test, marking two significant events in its cricketing history.
Zimbabwe Cricket has made modifications to the schedule for the forthcoming home series against Afghanistan, aiming to better accommodate fans by moving pivotal matches to weekends. The T20I series will kick off on Wednesday, December 11, with subsequent matches taking place on Friday, December 13, and Saturday, December 14. Additionally, the ODI series will commence on Tuesday, December 17, and continue on Thursday, December 19, and Saturday, December 21, with notable shifts from their original dates.
Givemore Makoni, the Managing Director of Zimbabwe Cricket, articulated the significance of these alterations. He remarked that the changes reflect an understanding of the passion fans harbor for cricket and are intended to optimize attendance at matches. Moreover, he stated, “Moving key matches to the weekend ensures better access for spectators, enhancing the atmosphere at Harare Sports Club.”
It is noteworthy that the Test series schedule remains unchanged, highlighted by Zimbabwe’s first Boxing Day Test in 28 years, set to take place from December 26 to 30 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Following this historic encounter, the inaugural New Year’s Test is scheduled for January 2 to 6, also at Queens Sports Club.
The full revised schedule is as follows:
1st T20I – Wednesday, December 11;
2nd T20I – Friday, December 13;
3rd T20I – Saturday, December 14;
1st ODI – Tuesday, December 17;
2nd ODI – Thursday, December 19;
3rd ODI – Saturday, December 21;
1st Test – December 26 to 30;
2nd Test – January 2 to 6.
The alteration of Zimbabwe’s cricket schedule is primarily aimed at increasing spectator attendance and enhancing the overall match atmosphere during the T20I and ODI series against Afghanistan. By shifting significant matches to weekends, Zimbabwe Cricket is aligning with the fans’ enthusiasm for the game and seeking to facilitate greater access to live cricket. In addition to the series against Afghanistan, Zimbabwe is preparing for significant Test matches, including a notable Boxing Day Test and a New Year’s Test, both adding historical significance to the cricketing calendar.
In conclusion, the changes to the T20I and ODI match schedules reflect Zimbabwe Cricket’s commitment to maximizing fan engagement through enhanced accessibility to matches. The moving of key matches to weekends is expected to boost attendance and create an electric atmosphere in the stands, further showcasing the excitement of cricket in Zimbabwe. The upcoming Test matches further emphasize the nation’s cricketing milestones, making this a pivotal time for the sport both regionally and internationally.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
