zimcricketnews.com

No doubt aiming to fill some holes after losing the services of Tatenda Taibu, Stuart Matsikenyeri and Njabula Ncube, Mountaineers have turned to the English counties for three new signings. Derbyshire's Greg Smith returns after making a cameo appearance for the side in last season's Stanbic Twenty20, and is joined by Essex's Tony Palladino and Lancashire's Gareth Cross, according to the Manica Post. Mountaineers CEO Phil Senzani confirmed the appointments:

"Yes, I can confirm the acquisition of the three players who were based in the UK. They are experienced players whom we hope will play a crucial role in enhancing our dominance on the local scene. We also want to take this opportunity to welcome back those players who were part of the franchise last season and are continuing from where they left. As Mountaineers, we are geared to cement our dominance in franchise cricket. We will also go out of our way to ensure that we identify and develop talent from grassroots level."

The Mutare-based side are also aiming to sign Australian Sean Clingeleffer as head coach, with Steve Mangongo stepping down to deputy to allow him to fulfil his duties as national 'A' coach - although Senzani confirmed that negotiations with Clingeleffer had not yet been completed.

Finally, Tinashe Panyangara will be making a return to Zimbabwean cricket for the side, after playing at club level in England in recent years.
Manica Post - Foreign quartet joins Mountaineers