TWO junior cricket teams from Mashonaland West province are scheduled to leave for Botswana this afternoon for a series of matches as part of their development programmes.

An Under-16 and an Under-19 side will travel to Gaborone on a reciprocal visit.

Coach of the Under-14 side, Paul Mungofa said yesterday he was optimistic that their tour to Gaborone would give exposure of their up-and-coming players.

"Basically we are taking Under-16s and Under-19 teams to Botswana as we continuously try to develop our talent in the Mashonaland West and Midlands provinces.

"Botswana brought their teams here for matches in Kadoma and now its our turn to return the favour.

"The youngsters are looking forward to the matches and we hope to give a good account for matches set between December 1 and 4," said Mungofa.

Mungofa said they have included some junior national team players who should be carrying the hopes of the teams.

"Our Under-16 team has Wallace Mubayiwa, a spin bowler from Norton who is also in the national team.

"The Under-19 team has all rounder Tarisai Musakanda who has played international matches before.

"We hope this visit to Botswana will aspire players in our leagues for greater success.

"So far we have played a couple of tournaments like the Super Six Bash in March which was followed by the Ed Rainsford Tournament and then the Kadoma festival.

"Botswana toured here in April and we also staged the Concern Motors," said Mungofa.

Harare lawyer Thembinkosi Magwaliba is assisting the teams with resources.