By Edward Makuzva Zimbabwe Cricket has appointed former West Indies pace legend Courtney Walsh as bowling consultant for the senior men’s national team ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March. Walsh has already joined the squad as Zimbabwe intensify preparations for the tournament, where they will feature in Group B alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and hosts Sri Lanka. ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni said the move was designed to add technical depth to the bowling unit ahead of the global showpiece. “Courtney Walsh brings unparalleled experience and insight at the highest level of international cricket, particularly in fast bowling,” Makoni said. “As we prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, it was important to bring in someone who understands what it takes to succeed on the global stage. His knowledge, professionalism and ability to mentor players will be invaluable.” Makoni added that Walsh’s prior involvement with Zimbabwean cricket influenced the decision. “He has previously worked with our women’s national team and understands our cricketing environment. That continuity, combined with his global coaching experience, gives us confidence he will make a meaningful impact.” Walsh said he was relishing the opportunity and believes Zimbabwe can be competitive if they execute their plans. “I’m very excited to work with Zimbabwe and looking forward to the challenges ahead,” he said. “We have a very good chance if we work together, execute well and adapt to the conditions.” He added that his early assessment of the bowling group had been positive, citing a balanced attack and significant potential. Widely regarded as one of the game’s greatest fast bowlers, Walsh represented the West Indies from 1984 to 2001, taking 519 wickets in 132 Tests and becoming the first bowler to reach the 500-wicket milestone. Since retiring, he has held several high-profile coaching roles, including head coach of the West Indies women’s team and specialist bowling coach for Bangladesh’s men’s side. In April 2024, he was appointed technical consultant to Zimbabwe’s women’s national team. Zimbabwe will begin their World Cup campaign against Oman at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on 9 February, before facing Australia at the R. Premadasa Stadium on 13 February. They will then meet Ireland at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on 17 February, before returning to Colombo to take on Sri Lanka on 19 February. The top two teams in Group B will progress to the Super Eight stage. Post navigation Previous Post