Aussies in May might help Zim cause: Rackemann

Australia will provide a much-needed boost for ailing Zimbabwean cricket by touring there next month, former Zimbabwe coach Carl Rackemann s...

Australia will provide a much-needed boost for ailing Zimbabwean cricket by touring there next month, former Zimbabwe coach Carl Rackemann said today.

Rackemann, who coached Zimbabwe from December 1999 to October 2001, said a visit by the world’s top team would provide a shot in the arm and help stave off fears cricket could be doomed in Zimbabwe. “International tours are vitally important for Zimbabwe, obviously to fund the game through TV rights, but also for the juniors and the badly-needed development of the game,” Rackemann said.

“It’s disappointing to see there’s players out and they’re having those difficulties, so obviously I’m hoping to read some good news.”

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Australian cricket officials are yet to receive any new concerns from players preparing to depart on May 13 following the decision of Stuart MacGill not to make himself available on moral grounds.

Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers Association hold grave concerns over the situation in Zimbabwe and ACA chief executive Tim May said it had the potential to cheapen Test cricket.

“There’s no doubt about it, it devalues international cricket. We won’t be surprised at what may happen with a substandard side,” May said.