Despite his undeniable talent and leadership potential, Tanunurwa Makoni finds himself at a crucial juncture in his cricketing career. 

While his recent 147-run masterclass in the Logan Cup reaffirmed his status as one of Zimbabwe’s brightest batting prospects, the reality remains he needs more matches to fully realize his potential.

Tuskers’ cricket administrator, Nicholas Mhlanga, is acutely aware of this. Speaking on Makoni’s development, he acknowledged the importance of managing the 25-year-old’s workload while ensuring he gets enough game time to sharpen his skills.

“As of now, he needs a lot more matches. We have only played a few Logan Cup fixtures, and he needs more. As a province, we are going to make sure that we do not overuse him and control him from getting over-exhausted,” Mhlanga explained.

Makoni has had an impressive journey, boasting four first-class centuries and seven fifties. His ability to score big runs has been proven, and although his international experience is still limited, he has represented Zimbabwe in two Test appearances, with a highest score of 33. The challenge for this talented player lies in maintaining his momentum and finding consistent opportunities to play against top opposition.

Tuskers are preparing Makoni for a future captaincy role, in addition to developing his batting skills.

“He is a potential team captain, and we are grooming him to be a future team leader. If not Tuskers, then begrudgingly, any other first-class province he might play for,” he said.

Makoni’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed, with coach Walter Chawaguta playing a key role in his development. A composed presence on the field, Makoni has already demonstrated the temperament required to lead a team.

The Logan Cup season has already witnessed some breathtaking individual performances, proving that Zimbabwean cricket is brimming with talent. While Makoni’s 147 stood out, he was joined by a host of batsmen who made their mark—Will Fraine (149), Wessly Madhevere (150), Tadiwanashe Marumani (124), Alistar Frost (209*), and Ben Curran (116).

The bowlers, too, had their moments of brilliance. Alex Falao’s astonishing 12-wicket haul (5/7) remains the standout, while Vincent Masekesa (6/137) and Brandon Mavuta (7/127) also delivered game-changing performances.

For now, the challenge remains ensuring Makoni gets enough game time to continue his upward trajectory. While Tuskers are mindful of not overburdening him, they also recognize that regular matches are essential for his growth.

As Makoni continues to enhance his skills and build his reputation, the Zimbabwean cricket fraternity watches closely. With the right opportunities and careful management, he could soon emerge as a domestic stalwart, and a mainstay in the national setup perhaps even as a future captain.

For Zimbabwe, and for Makoni himself, the key now is simple, more matches, more experience, and more moments of brilliance.