The Zimbabwe national chess team has left the country for the 42nd World Chess Olympiad which starts on September 1 in the Azerbaijan capital Baku.

The Zimbabwe delegation which is led by the Chess Association president Charles Kuwaza comprises of men and ladies teams.

The men’s team which is captained by Elton Mhangarayi comprises of international master Farai Mandizha who is based in the United States, South Africa based Rodwell Makoto, Elisha Chimbamu, Masango Spencer and Emarald Takudzwa Mushore.

The women’s team has Captain Hinga Githinji, Wakuruwarewa Colleta, Zengeni Tatenda Melisa, Nomalungelo Mathe and Kudzanayi Charinda.

The games will be played at the Baku Crystal Hall.

Russia, China, Ukraine, USA and the hosts Azerbaijan have the highest numbers of the top seeded players.