The Africa Cricket Association (ACA), the continental body for cricket in Africa is gearing up to revive perhaps the most dynamic rivalries of world cricket. The Afro-Asia Cup is all set to return to the grand scheme of things for the first time since its final edition which took place in India in 2007. The tournament will comprise a series of white-ball matches that will be played between the Africa Playing Xl and Asia Playing Xl. Players based on merit will be chosen from major countries in Africa and Asia. However, a major chunk of talent will originate from India, Pakistan, and South Africa. 

ACA conducted its AGM meeting on Sunday where they formed a six-person committee to bring about institutional reforms and drive the number of opportunities for the players from the continent. One of the key goals of this organization is to establish ties with the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and discuss initiatives such as the Afro-Asia Cup which can open up a wide array of cross-continental cricket opportunities for the wider region. 

A look into the tournament's past

The inaugural edition of the Afro-Asia Cup was held way back in 2005 in South Africa and later in 2007 in India. The third edition of the tournament was supposed to take place in Kenya in 2009 but the plan never materialized. The 2005 Asia squad was led by Inzamam-ul-Haq whereas Shaun Pollock took charge of the Africa squad. That squad featured some of the big names in world cricket at that time including but not limited to AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Steve Tikolo, and Mark Boucher. Asia Xl on the other hand also featured some major heavyweights including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara, Virender Sehwag, Anil Kumble, Shoaib Akhtar, and Shahid Afridi.

At that time, both India and Pakistan shared friendly geopolitical relations which in turn had a positive impact on the cricketing rivalries between the two nations. But all of that changed when the infamous 2008 terror attacks took place in Mumbai. Since that tragic incident, both nations have been at odds with each other and have not engaged in participating in bilateral series. 

But if the third edition of the Afor-Asia Cup is to take place, then we may see the Indian and Pakistani players in action alongside each other. Considering the strained political ties between the two countries, such a sight will be quite a spectacle for the fans and the media houses to cherish.

How will the Afro-Asia Cup positively impact Zimbabwe cricket 

Tavengwa Mukuhlani, interim chair of the ACA, comments that apart from providing much-needed entertainment to the cricket fans, the tournament would also bring in a lot of revenue which the country so desperately requires. Mukuhlani, who is also the Zimbabwe Cricket Chair revealed that he is currently having conversations with his Asian counterparts (ACC) on getting this tournament back to its glory days. 

Mukuhlani makes it clear that the players from his country will participate in the tournament along with their South African neighbors. He believes that the presence of Zimbabwean and South African players adds a layer of versatility to the tournament which then opens up new doors for the young and upcoming cricketers to hone new skills and advance their level of cricket.  

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In a strategic move that has ignited hope across the nation, Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has appointed former West Indies captain Courtney Walsh as a consultant for the national women’s team. This appointment comes at a crucial time as the team gears up for the Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers set for April 2024 in the UAE. Zimbabwe aims to carve a niche for itself on the international stage, having never participated in the Women’s T20 World Cup before.

Courtney Walsh’s Profile

Courtney Walsh, a name synonymous with cricketing greatness, holds a legendary status thanks to his record-breaking stint as a fast bowler. With 519 Test wickets to his name, Walsh’s transition into coaching has been marked by significant achievements, including leading the West Indies women’s team to the semi-finals of the Women’s ODI World Cup in 2022. His wealth of experience is expected to bring a transformative touch to the Zimbabwean side.

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The Role of a Consultant

As a technical consultant, Walsh’s role will encompass strategic guidance and mentoring. His main task is to refine the team’s techniques and to instill a competitive spirit that could elevate their performance during critical matches.

Historically, Zimbabwe’s women’s cricket has faced numerous challenges, from inadequate funding to limited international exposure. Despite these hurdles, the team has shown remarkable resilience and potential in regional tournaments.

The Importance of the T20 Women’s World Cup

For Zimbabwe, qualifying for the Women’s T20 World Cup is not just about making a mark in women’s cricket but also about inspiring a new generation of female athletes in the country. The event promises to put Zimbabwe on the global sports map, potentially unlocking more support and recognition for women’s sports.

Current Team Dynamics

Zimbabwe’s squad boasts a mix of experienced campaigners and promising newcomers. Key players who are expected to play a central role include the team captain and the leading all-rounder, whose performances in regional games have been noteworthy.

Support from Zimbabwe Cricket

ZC’s Managing Director, Givemore Makoni, has expressed optimism about Walsh’s involvement, highlighting the positive expectations surrounding his appointment and the future of women’s cricket in Zimbabwe.

“We count ourselves fortunate and privileged to be able to bring in Courtney as a technical consultant for our campaign at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Abu Dhabi. He is one of the world’s greatest cricketers and we believe his experience at the highest level of the women’s game in particular will boost our chances of securing one of the two spots up for grabs at the main global showpiece later in the year,” ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni said.