Zambia will hold a one-month training camp at home before heading off to United Arab Emirates (UAE) to play warm-up matches against a UAE development XI to build up to next month's World Cricket League Division Eight in Kuwait.
The Zambians, coached by former South African batsman Peter Kirsten, will play three games against the UAE XI where he hopes his side can put into practice what was covered during the Lusaka-based camp.
"We will be concentrating on specific 'one-on-one' drills and team-related match practices against local opposition. Much attention will be given to game plans, physical and mental sharpness, [with] the captain playing a vital leading role," Kirsten told ESPNcricinfo.
Kirsten was typically upbeat and believed his side would rise to the occasion of playing a team from another country. "The squad is well balanced, a good blend of youth and experience comprising medium-fast bowlers, spinners and batsmen," he said.
The team is in confident frame of mind, very enthusiastic and is hungry for success. They will be playing against other countries for the first time, which is always a motivating factor. They have been a joy to coach and clearly have a passion for the game."
The timing of the World Cricket League Division Eight should suit Zambia, who are in Group B with Bahamas, Germany and Gibraltar. The Zambian season finishes at the end of October with their opening game, against Germany, on November 6. They then play Bahamas a day later and Gibraltar on November 9 before the semi-finals and classifications matches.
Group A consists of Suriname, Kuwait, Vanuatu and Bhutan.