Zimbabwe’s ODI team, led by Craig Ervine, is ready to face the challenge against Sri Lanka during the ODI series, set to commence tomorrow (6) at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium from 2.30 pm onwards.

The Zimbabwe team arrived last Wednesday, starting their training session yesterday evening at the R. Premadasa.

Susil Ramanayake, the liaison officer to the Zimbabwe team, mentioned that both captains Kusal Mendis and Craig Ervine, will brief the media at the pre-match press conference today at 1.30 pm. at the R.Premadasa Stadium media centre. Kusal Mendis faces a significant challenge against Zimbabwe after the last World Cup, and this series will be a good test for players like Janith Liyanage, the all-rounder.

“We are not taking it easy against Zimbabwe, considering our team’s good match practice during recent major clubs limited overs tournament. This is beneficial for all players,” said Upul Tharanga Chairman of the Selection Committee.

“Our Committee discusses everything thoroughly sound selections without favouring any player or club. Consistent batting, good fielding and bowling are expected from the batsmen and players’ commitment is crucial. Against any opponent, players should realize their responsibility, as they are the ones who play in the middle and the supporting staff can provide backing to the players,” he said.

“Looking back at the records, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe played 61 ODIs so far, while Sri Lanka won 47 matches and Zimbabwe 12 matches and two matches have ended in no results.

The last Zimbabwe game against Sri Lanka was played at the World Cup qualifying round, where Sri Lanka recorded a 9-wicket win at Bulawayo. However, before that Zimbabwe toured Sri Lanka and played three ODIs with Sri Lanka winning the series 2-1.