Mashonaland look to consolidate

In the second round of matches in the Logan Cup, defending champions Mashonaland will be out to win against Midlands, which get underway on Tuesday at the Kwekwe Sports Club.

Mashonaland opened their title defence with a 258-run victory over Matabeleland at Bulawayo Athletic Club last week. Taibu excelled with the bat, scoring 91 in the first innings before recording his third first-class century in the second. Allrounder Elton Chigumbura and middle-order batsmen Tafadzwa Mufambisi and Chamunorwa Chibhabha also featured strongly in Mashonaland's victory, each hitting half-centuries. In addition, Chigumbura took 6 for 97 in the match while Douglas Hondo only conceded 42 runs off his 27 overs.

Midlands, who are led by Alester Maregwede, go in to the match having lost their opening game inside three days to Manicaland. Maregwede is expected to combine with Vusumuzi Sibanda and Craig Ervine, the younger brother of Sean, to strengthen the batting. Edward Rainsford will lead the Midlands bowling attack with Prosper Utseya, the offspinner, in support.

Matabeleland, captained by Mluleki Nkala, have made two changes from the side that had put up such a dismal show at Bulawayo last week. They will be seeking better fortune when they lock horns with Manicaland.

Young pace bowler Simba Kusano, who was profligate and wicketless against Mashonaland, has been dropped as has Sean Williams, who is studying for exams. They are replaced by Charles Coventry and pace bowler Chris Mpofu, who has just returned from the Commonwealth Bank Academy in Australia. Heath Streak, Matabeleland's former captain, has been hired to assist them in the coaching department headed by Pommie Mbangwa.