Zimbabwe cricketer feeling the love

Raymond Jaravaza

AS a budding cricketer honing his skills in the Milton High School first team in the early 2000s, playing in England was nothing short of a distant dream for Chevrons bowler John Nyumbu. 

Fast forward to 2019, Nyumbu, who made his debut for Zimbabwe against South Africa in 2014, says it still feels like a dream that he has finally made it into English county cricket. 

Nyumbu joined English side Grantham Cricket Club as a player- coach earlier this month.

He joined the club on a six-month contract. 

“Patience, hard work, determination and discipline are key to a successful cricketer’s career. However, for me, above all what has really worked for me is putting God first and all shall be well.

“It still feels like a dream that I’m here though,” said Nyumbu

For a player who has lived in Bulawayo almost his entire life, the cold weather in England will take a lot of getting used to. 

“The weather is a bit tough, but I’ll have to adapt to it quickly. They’ve welcomed me very well and the young couple I’m staying with is a blessing. 

“Besides playing, I will be helping out with coaching and will be in charge of the junior teams,” he said. 

Grantham Cricket Club competes in the Lincolnshire County Board Premier League and Nyumbu was signed by the team through a cricket agency. 

The spin bowler is a holder of a Zimbabwe Cricket Level One coaching certificate and revealed that he will advance his qualifications during his five months stay in England. 

He will enrol for the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Level Two coaching clinic.

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