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Since I saw the criticism of the commentators in the ongoing Zim-Pak series, I thought of creating a thread for appreciating the best of Zimbabwean commentators.

For me, Pommie Mbangwa has established himself as one of the best broadcasters going around the world today. The clarity of thought, spontaneity and insight into the game which comes out in his commentary is simply superb. Although not an avid fan of South African cricket, I have recently started watching a lot of their home matches, just to listen to Pommie . Pommie Mbangwa and Mike Haysman is my dream commentary pair.

Apart from Pommie, I really liked the deep insights of Andy Pycroft and crispy Alistair Campbell. Kudos to Dean Du Plessis. He is a special achiever.

Among others, I find David Houghton, Neil Johnson, Mluleki Nkala, Henry Olonga, and others, a bit too mild. They cannot create that excitement that is very much necessary in cricket commentary. But clearly, they are not the worst.

Houghton's good for post-match analysis - Sky in the UK make use of him for that quite a bit. But yes, not so good at live commentary.

How Dean du Plessis can tell as much as he can simply from the stump mikes amazes me - clearly very passionate about the game, and has a good depth of knowledge. Heard him during the Zimbabwe v India series a few years ago, and he did a few good commentary stints.

Pommie's head-and-shoulders above them all, though...

Pommie is world class.

Of the regulars, I've only heard Pommie and Pycroft (Pycroft in the Zim vs Ban 2006 series, and Pommie on various other occasions). I haven't heard du Plessis, Olonga, Hondo or Campbell. Hugo "Capt Obvious" is among the worst I've heard from any countries...

HUGO wont make the list then....The most subjective least Objective commentator there is probably!!!!

jimbo wrote:HUGO wont make the list then....The most subjective least Objective commentator there is probably!!!!

Great post

I have always liked Andy Pycroft as a commentator. Mbangwa does a good job also.

Pommie Mbangwa and Dean Du Plessis for me, those guys know the game inside out. I loved their commentries and analysis.