Zimbabwe`s Brendan Taylor has said winning against Ireland is “non-negotiable” for his side if they are to qualify for the World Cup quarter-finals.
The Africans play the Irish, a non-Test side, in Hobart on Saturday in what is an important Pool B clash for both sides.
Ireland are currently fifth in the seven-strong pool, with two wins from three games giving them a total of four points.
By contrast Zimbabwe are sixth, with just one win — and a hard-fought one at that over the amateurs from the UAE — in four games and a total of two points.
Only the top four teams in each of the two pools will reach the last eight.
Asked about the importance of this weekend`s match, Taylor said Friday: “That`s non-negotiable for us.
“We want to turn up tomorrow and we want to win. We want to win convincingly and we feel we`re good enough to do that.”
Zimbabwe`s most recent defeat, a 20-run reverse against Pakistan, was especially disappointing as they did a lot of the hard work in restricting their opponents to 235 for seven only to be bowled out for 215 themselves.
But wicketkeeper/batsman Taylor, who made exactly 50 against Pakistan, said Zimbabwe`s mood remained positive.
“It`s surprisingly upbeat. We know we need to win this game. There are no grey areas there.
“But they (Ireland) are a good side. We`re very much aware of that.
“The more demoralising one (loss) was Pakistan, not getting over the line at 230.
“Guys need to just put their heads down — 30s and 40s aren`t going to win us games. We need to carry on, kick on, and get that hundred. So that is the focus.”
Zimbabwe will be without captain Elton Chigumbura at Bellerive Oval after the all-rounder suffered a hamstring tear fielding against Pakistan.
“From what I understand, he has a grade three tear,” said Taylor. “I don`t understand in terms of how long that will put him out.
“I know he`s working day and night with the physio trying to get him ready for the India game.
