Australia A set to play Zimbabwe A

Sydney, June 17 (ANI): Australia are set to host a Zimbabwe next year for the first time since 2003, following a meeting between Cricket Australia and Zimbabwean Sports Minister David Coltart.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the two teams will play an "A" series.

This still represents a major step for the African nation after years of sanctions and international condemnation.

"There is a spot in 2011, but the trouble is that slot was for two Tests in Australia and even though Zimbabwe wants to re-commence playing Test cricket next year, there's a recognition that to throw this young team into the Test arena against Australia at this stage would be counter-productive," Coltart said.

"An 'A' series is what the discussions are centring on, the exchange of 'A' teams rather than at Test level. We've discussed an exchange of tours, in other words (tours) both ways," Coltart added.

Coltart is due to meet with Foreign Minister Stephen Smith in Canberra on Thursday, and expects a similarly fruitful dialogue. (ANI)