Lalchand Rajput Appointed Head Coach of Zimbabwe Cricket Team

Former India batsman, Lalchand Rajput has been named as Zimbabwe’s head coach with immediate effect.

The former player was part of the Indian coaching staff during their triumphant campaign in 2007 World Twenty20 in South Africa. He had also worked with Afghanistan in the past in the coaching capacity as well.

Rajput will be replacing Heath Streak as the head coach of Zimbabwe. Earlier, Streak was fired from his job after Zimbabwe failed to qualify for the 2019 World Cup. It is after a long time that Zimbabwe missed out on a World Cup berth.

“We are targeting qualification for the next T20 and 50-over World Cup tournaments. We believe Lalchand has the pedigree and experience to build a young side. It will help us achieve our goals,” said Zimbabwe Cricket chairman, Tavengwa Mukhlani.

Lalchand Rajput has a wealth of experience

“Lalchand has a wealth of experience. He has an outstanding track record of success throughout his career. His hard-working and passionate approach and his sense of values on and off the pitch make him the ideal person to take us forward,” he added.

Rajput represented India in a couple of Test matches and four ODI’s between 1985-1987. His tenure will begin with a limited-overs tour of South Africa in September. Following the series, the African minnows will be playing a Test series in Bangladesh.

“I think it is a positive move from ZC. Appointing someone of his experience and stature bodes well for the future of our cricket as he is a really positive coach. He brings a lot of positive energy and wants to see positive results for the team,” said Zimbabwe captain Hamilton Masakadza.

“I have been very impressed with his work ethic and attention to detail. We have worked on a lot of specifics and put a lot of time into our games. The boys have responded really well to the rigorous training schedule. We are already starting to see a lot of improvement.”