Flying the flags for Zimbabwe

Ready to cheer on the Zimbabwe cricket team at the University Oval today are (from left) Kuda Zimba, Patience Matavire, Tichafara Chabva (in Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor's shirt), Emmanuel Mururi, Aaron Zimba and Moses Nyamugafata.

The fans were at the ground yesterday to show their support for their team and, as they posed for the photo, Taylor sent one of his team shirts over to the group, much to their delight.

"It's the first time we've played here and it will be special," Aaron Zimba, of Dunedin, said.

"There are quite a few Zimbabweans in New Zealand, so we'll have a big contingent of supporters. That will make our players more confident."

At least 60 Zimbabwe fans were expected at the match, he said.

His optimism was not shared by his friends.

"I reckon New Zealand will win by nine wickets," Mr Chabva, of Dunedin, said.

The match starts at 11am at the University Oval.