UK: Diaspora Insurance hosts reception for Zimbabwe Cricket team ahead of England test

By UK Correspondent

UK-BASED global risk experts, Diaspora Insurance, will this Sunday, give the Zimbabwe Cricket team a timely boost with some home comforts ahead of the Chevrons’ historic one-off test match against England.

Zimbabwe will play a landmark one-off clash at Trent Bridge from May 22-25.

The marks the Chevron’s return to the longest format on English soil for the first time in over two decades.

This Sunday, Diaspora Insurance will host the tourists at the company’s global headquarters in Birmingham for a dinner reception which will also be attended by Zimbabwe’s ambassador to the United Kingdom Retired Colonel Christian M. Katsande.

Commenting on the development, the company’s head of marketing Chitra Suran said, “we are delighted to host the Zimbabwe Cricket Reception as part of our continued commitment to supporting the Zimbabwean diaspora and promoting community excellence across all spheres — including sport.

“Cricket holds a special place in the hearts of many Zimbabweans, and this event is both a celebration of our national talent and a platform to connect with our community in the UK.

“We are especially honoured to be joined by His Excellency, Ambassador Rtd. Colonel Christian M. Katsande, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, and to have the privilege of hosting the Zimbabwe National Cricket Team as our distinguished guests.”

She added; “Attendees can expect an inspiring evening of networking, cultural pride, and engagement with members of the Zimbabwe national cricket team and key figures from the diaspora.

“As Diaspora Insurance, we see this as more than a reception — it’s a moment to honour identity, foster unity, and showcase the positive impact Zimbabweans are making globally.

“It’s a privilege to stand with our national heroes and celebrate Zimbabwean excellence on and off the pitch. This reception is a testament to the strength and pride of the diaspora community — and to the shared identity that continues to unite us across borders.”

The fast-growing company, which now covers 20 African nationalities across the world, recently hosted the Zimbabwe Football Association leadership and the national team coach during their tour of the UK.

Previously, the company, which is celebrating its 13^th anniversary this year, also hosted a reception for the Zimbabwe national women’s netball team, The Gems, during their UK-tour for the Celtic International Series games.

Meanwhile, speaking after their training sessions ahead of the England test, Zimbabwe head coach Justin Sammons said the players were in good spirits. “Good day. Obviously, we had a long journey from Harare to Leicestershire.

“So, you know, Sunday was a day off in terms of our recovery. And then today was our first session out in the field and the nets.

“I think it was excellent. Just a nice technical session. Guys are ticking their boxes there. So, yeah, happy with the way it went.”

The return to England comes at a time when Zimbabwe are rebuilding their red-ball programme, coming hard on the heels of a hard-fought one-all series draw against Bangladesh.

“It’s why you play the game. You want to play against the best and, obviously, England are one of the best Test teams in the world,” Sammons said. “And it gives us a gauge as to where we are and what we need to do moving forward.

“But the guys have a real belief that they belong, and I’m looking forward to seeing them go out there with their chests puffed out and walking out there like they do belong in the space.”