HARARE, Oct 27: Zimbabwe were optimistic of performing competitively in next month’s home series against West Indies even though they were comprehensively beaten during their tour of Australia, officials said on Monday.

Despite being thrashed by an innings and 175 runs in the first test against Australia and by nine wickets in the second last week, Zimbabwe Cricket Union president Peter Chingoka believes the team will perform well against the visitors.

West Indies squad:

Chris Gayle, Wavell Hinds, Daren Ganga, Brian Lara (capt), Ramnaresh Sarwan, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Marlon Samuels, Carlton Baugh, Ridley Jacobs, Omari Banks, Vasbert Drakes, Jerome Taylor, Corey Collymore, Fidel Edwards, Mervyn Dillon, Ravi Rampaul.

Itinerary

Oct 30-Nov 1: Tour match, Harare

Nov 4-8: First test, Harare

Nov 12-16: Second test, Bulawayo

Nov 19: Limited overs tour match, Kwekwe

Nov 22: First one-day international (ODI), Bulawayo

Nov 23: Second ODI, Bulawayo

Nov 26: Third ODI, Harare

Nov 29: Fourth ODI, Harare

Nov 30: Fifth ODI, Harare.—Reuters