Witness Runodada- Zim Now Reporter
Zimbabwe has named a 14-member squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier 2025, set to take place in Namibia from 31 August to 6 September.
Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano will captain the side as they look to secure a place at next year’s Global Qualifier in Nepal, the final step before the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Drawn in Group A, Zimbabwe will face hosts Namibia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. Group B features Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda.
The Lady Chevrons begin their campaign on 31 August with a high-profile clash against Namibia at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek, before taking on Sierra Leone the following morning at the same venue.
They will round off their group fixtures against Nigeria on 3 September at the HP Oval in Windhoek.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on 4 September, with the finalists not only contesting the trophy on 6 September but also sealing qualification for the Global Qualifier in Nepal.
Zimbabwe will be hoping to replicate the form that saw them dominate the last edition of the Africa Qualifier in Uganda in 2023, when they went unbeaten before defeating the hosts in the final to progress.
Head coach Walter Chawaguta said the team is well prepared and fully aware of the stakes.
“This tournament is of huge significance because it is our gateway to the Global Qualifier, which in turn gives us a chance to play at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026,” he said.
“Every game counts and we know what is at stake. We have worked hard on all aspects of our game – from batting depth and bowling variations to fielding sharpness. The squad has a good balance of experience and youth, and we believe we are in a strong position to compete.”
At the same time, Chawaguta urged caution, stressing the importance of consistency and focus.
“It’s important for us to stay humble and grounded. We cannot afford to underestimate any opposition because in tournament cricket, one bad day can undo all your hard work. The key will be to remain consistent and play every match with the same intensity,” he added.
The squad features experienced campaigners such as Josephine Nkomo, Modester Mupachikwa, Loreen Tshuma, Nomvelo Sibanda, and Christabel Chatonzwa, alongside exciting youngsters like Kelis Ndhlovu, Beloved Biza, Kudzai Chigora, Adel Zimunu, and Lindokuhle Mabhero. Chiedza Dhururu, Nyasha Gwanzura, and Francisca Chipare complete the line-up.
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