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Fungai Lupande Sports Correspondent
MASHONALAND Gold Cricket Club Under-13 team beat their Zambian counterparts at a tournament meant to strengthen relations between the two countries.

Alpha Cricket Academy from Zambia, Buffaloes Cricket Academy from Harare, Mashonaland Gold and Mashonaland Green from Mashonaland Central battled in the three-day tournament.

In the final, Mash Gold took on Alpha and batted first, scoring 51 runs.

Alpha batted second and were bowled out for 26 runs.

Mashonaland Central Cricket Association vice-chairperson Danny Tumozo said he was happy with the performance of the teams and a lot of children were showing interest in the game.

“The purpose of the tournament was to strengthen bilateral relations in sporting activities with our neighbouring country,’’ he said.

“The players learn the culture, the approach and conditions of other countries. This broadens their vision.

“The tournament also keeps the boys busy during the school holidays and we are hoping to tour Namibia during the August school holiday and South Africa during the December holiday.

“The tournament was sponsored by parents and their support during the three days was overwhelming, with some leaving their busy schedules.

“We appeal to the business community to support cricket so that we can spread the sport to all districts in the province.”

Alpha Cricket head coach and founder Ishmael Mbatata said he was impressed with the talent displayed during the tournament.