With the departure of Dave Rees, David Lewis was appointed captain of Rhodesia; he was to enjoy the longest tenure of any captain of the national side.

Unfortunately there was just one first-class match during the season, against the New Zealand tourists, for the benefit of whom the Currie Cup competition was shelved. A two-match tour by Transvaal was planned, but cancelled owing tgo the non-availability of the Transvaal Test players.

The Rhodesians fancied their chances against the New Zealanders, who did not have the strength of either England or Australia. It proved to be a close match, which Rhodesia might have won had they held their catches. Rhodesia were aiming to score 216 in 135 minutes when rain stopped play with 45 minutes left. Ron Coventry, on his debut for Rhodesia and renowned as the fastest scorer in the country, gave them a good start with his 63, including 23 off an over from John Reid.

At Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo; 27, 28, 30 November. NEW ZEALANDERS 240 (B Sutcliffe 47, M E Chapple 51, J E F Beck 53; J T Partridge 3/56, M D Slaven 4/97) and 207/8 dec (B Sutcliffe 49, L S M Miller 42, M B Poore 40; J T Partridge 3/50). RHODESIA 232 (P N F Mansell 41, M W Davies 76; R W Blair 3/53, J R Reid 3/16) and 114/5 (R W Coventry 63; R W Blair 3/36). Match drawn.

It is intended in the future to produce full scorecards, and also much more information about all cricket in Rhodesia during this season. At present, the next entry in this section is for 1954/55