GRAHAM GRIFFITHS, London | Wednesday 10.35am.
KEY strike bowler Heath Streak has given Zimbabwe the perfect boost for their first test match at Lord’s by recovering from knee trouble in time to face England.
Zimbabwean captain Andy Flower said after his players had practised on Tuesday at Shenley Cricket Centre, a few miles north of London: “Heath had a good bowl this morning, looked impressive, and he’ll be playing on Thursday.”
Streak has been by far the most successful bowler during his country’s eight years in test cricket, capturing 120 wickets in 29 tests at an average of 23.28.
However, he suffered an injury to his left knee playing in a one-off test against Australia in Harare last October, underwent surgery and did not return until Zimbabwe toured the Caribbean in March.
Flower himself plays a triple role as skipper, wicketkeeper and top order batsman in a side he acknowledges does not boast any stars but which he believes is an effective combination.
“I think we’ve got a good unit together that works well together. We believe we can win and the guys are confident,” Flower said.
Touring teams traditionally draw inspiration from playing at the game’s spiritual headquarters — England have won only one test at Lord’s, in 1995, during the past 10 years.
“It will be special for us but the important thing is for us to play good cricket and do well at Lord’s. Just walking on the park and taking part in the game is not good enough,” Flower said.
For England, a winning start to their busiest home international schedule is essential as they seek to climb back at least to respectability in test cricket.
After losing 2-1 in four tests against New Zealand last season and, more predictably, 2-1 in a five-match rubber on their subsequent tour of South Africa, England’s attempt to move forward with 12 players under central contracts has already stalled. — AFP