Zimbabwe’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh resumed with a spirited training session in Sylhet on Thursday, despite intermittent rain that delayed the start and forced an early end to the day’s activities.
The squad, which arrived in Bangladesh earlier this week, gathered for their first practice at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, showcasing energy and focus during warm-ups and fielding drills before rain returned midway through the net session.
“It’s unfortunate, but obviously these things you can’t control,” Zimbabwe Head Coach Justin Sammons said, after the downpour forced his charges off the field.
“I’m happy with the prep we got in Harare. We had four good days of a regional game there, so the guys are coming off quite a bit of game time.
“And we sort of prepared for all possible conditions when we were in Harare – that was quite nice.”
Sammons praised the players’ attitude, noting their positive mindset and determination despite back-to-back travel days.
“Like I said, it’s unfortunate, but the guys are in good spirits,” he said.
“They’ve had some nice time together in the changeroom after two sort of heavy travel days. So, I am happy with where the group is at.”
Only four members of the touring party – captain Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Wellington Masakadza and Victor Nyauchi – have previously played Test cricket in Bangladesh.
For the rest, the series offers a fresh challenge and valuable learning opportunity.
“It’s going to be a massive learning opportunity for the group,” Sammons said.
“For most of them, it’s their first time here in whites. The key is to take the lessons from this experience and grow as cricketers.”
With the first Test set to begin on Sunday, Sammons emphasised that Zimbabwe are aiming high despite the unfamiliar conditions.
“Every time we come into a series, we play to win, and nothing changes here,” he said.
“We strongly believe we have a group of players that can really compete and take the series back with us to Zimbabwe.”
