This is the biography of Tendai Chatara, an international cricketer who represents the Zimbabwe national cricket team, The Chevrons. His tall, wiry frame conceals a potent fast bowler with appreciable pace and the ability to move the ball away from right-handed batsmen. Let’s delve into the life and career of this talented athlete.
Early Life
Tendai Larry Chatara was born on February 28, 1991, in Chimanimani, Manicaland. He attended local schools in Manicaland, but his academic performance wasn’t exceptional. His true calling lay on the cricket field.
Tendai Chatara Cricket Career
Chatara burst onto the cricket scene after making his first-class debut for the Mountaineers in 2009. Despite struggling academically in school, he quickly established himself as one of Zimbabwe’s most promising pace prospects. His athleticism extended beyond cricket; prior to his cricket call-up, he represented his hometown, Manicaland, in 200 and 400-meter events.
In domestic cricket, Chatara’s performances were nothing short of brilliant. His first-class debut against Mid-West Rhinos saw him concede just 25 runs from 7 overs, showcasing an impressive economy rate of 3.57. He went on to claim 71 wickets from just 20 matches, leaving a lasting impact in other formats as well, including List A and Twenty20 cricket.
Tendai Chatara International Career
Chatara’s domestic success caught the attention of the Zimbabwean selectors, leading to his inclusion in the senior cricket team’s Twenty20 International series against India. In his second T20I, he took his maiden wicket at the international senior level by dismissing Yusuf Pathan.
He also represented Zimbabwe in the 2010 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. His journey continued, and in 2011, he played in Zimbabwe’s tri-nation series against the Australian and South Africa A cricket teams.
Career Statistics
- Test Matches: Chatara played 9 Test matches, taking 24 wickets at an average of 27.62. His best bowling figures in Tests are 5/61.
- ODIs: In 83 ODIs, he has claimed 107 wickets at an average of 23.28. His best ODI bowling figures are 4/33.
- T20Is: Chatara has featured in 50 T20Is, taking 56 wickets at an average of 23.28. His best T20I bowling figures are 3/14.
References
- Tendai Chatara Profile – Cricket Player Zimbabwe – ESPNcricinfo
- Cricketers Chatara and Raza star as Zimbabwe stun India in low-scorer – New Zimbabwe
- Tendai Chatara – CricBizz