Walter Chawaguta has been chosen temporary head coach of Zimbabwe’s senior national team for the journey to Sri Lanka.
Chawaguta will be in his second term as Zimbabwe’s head coach, having previously held the position in 2008. He is now the coach of the provincial first-class side Tuskers, as well as a batting consultant for the Zimbabwe women’s team.
Stuart Matsikenyeri (Assistant Coach/Batting Coach), Steve Kirby (Bowling Coach), Erick Chauluka (Fielding Coach), Walter Karimanzira (Fitness and Conditioning Trainer), Amato Machikicho (Physiotherapist), Alistair Chambe (Team Doctor), and Mufaro Chiturumani (Analyst) will be beside him.
Chawaguta’s hiring follows the resignation of previous coach Dave Houghton on December 20th, after Zimbabwe’s failure to qualify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup via the Africa Qualifier.
The Africa Qualifier had two berths up for grabs, and Zimbabwe missed out after placing third in the standings with four victories and two losses. The two defeats occurred in their first three games, against Namibia and then a surprise loss to Uganda, but Zimbabwe recovered by winning the remaining matches.
Namibia and Uganda, on the other hand, held their own and finished first and second, securing their places in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Zimbabwe’s tour of Sri Lanka began on January 6 with three one-day internationals (ODIs), followed by three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). All games will be held at Colombo’s R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium.