Fresh off a match-winning performance for New Zealand against South Africa, Tim Robinson wasn’t just celebrating a 21-run victory; he was effusively declaring his love for Zimbabwe, especially its climate, its people, and most notably, its incredible steaks.
The Player of the Match, whose vital 75 runs off 57 balls rescued the Black Caps’ innings at Harare Sports Club, wasted no time in expressing his profound appreciation for his temporary home.
“I mean Zimbabwe as a country, I love it so far,” Robinson told journalists after Wednesday’s triumph, his face lighting up. “The climate’s fantastic, the people have been very, very nice and very accommodating.”
But it was when he spoke about the local cuisine that Robinson’s enthusiasm truly soared.
“I love all the steaks, the steaks are my favourite, I love the red meat over here it’s fantastic,” he declared with genuine delight, leaving no doubt about his culinary priorities during the T20 Tri-Series.
His words painted a vivid picture of a man thoroughly enjoying the local fare, finding solace and satisfaction in every bite of Zimbabwean beef.
The 23 – year – old opener went on to draw parallels between the cricketing conditions in Zimbabwe and back home, highlighting the familiar pace and bounce that suits the New Zealand team’s style of play.
“In terms of the services and the cricketing conditions it’s actually quite similar to back home, a little bit of pace and bounce and that’s really nice,” he explained, noting the presence of good fast bowling which he enjoys.
As New Zealand prepares to face host nation Zimbabwe on Friday at Harare Sports Club, Robinson emphasised the importance of adaptability.
“Zimbabwe are going to pose a different challenge on Friday and we pride ourselves on trying to adapt as quick as we possibly can,” he said, anticipating a potentially different wicket and different bowlers.
This Tri-Series marks New Zealand’s first visit to Zimbabwe since August 2016, and Robinson’s glowing review of the country, particularly his deep appreciation for its steaks, will surely resonate with many.
With two Test matches scheduled to begin on July 30 in Bulawayo, it seems Robinson will have plenty more opportunities to indulge in his beloved Zimbabwean red meat, a delightful bonus to what is shaping up to be a successful tour.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe, having lost their opening match to South Africa, will be eager to secure their first win of the tournament against the steak-loving Kiwi.
