Taibu a doubtful starter for Zimbabwe's first match

An injured hamstring has threatened Tatenda Taibu's participation in Zimbabwe's Champions Trophy opener against England at Edgbaston tomorrow. Taibu was diagnosed with a tear in his right hamstring, but he was optimistic about his chances.

"I was told the injury was between grade one and grade two which is not bad, but I do have to have a late fitness test on Friday," Taibu told AFP. "I'm hopeful I will be fit and it shouldn't be a problem, but it is an important area for me as the wicketkeeper because I'm moving up and down constantly."

His progress will be closely monitored by Zimbabwe, because his withdrawal from the match would leave them short of significant experience, and they would miss their main player. Taibu was seen as a plucky batsman when Heath Streak was captain, but after the mass exodus of players, he was made captain, and the results showed in his batting.

Taibu talked up his team's chances, and warned others against taking Zimbabwe lightly. "There is no doubt we have enough firepower to cause an upset because we've got some real talent and if it all clicks we can rock a few teams. The guys try to learn all the time and they back me up completely so it is great to have a squad like that. I know we are underdogs, but I play every game to win and so do the rest of the boys and by doing that we can only get better."