Zim Women Dominate Namibia in Africa Qualifier Ope...

Zim Women Dominate Namibia in Africa Qualifier Opener

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwe Women made a strong start at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier after defeating hosts Namibia by 32 runs in Windhoek on Sunday.

Batting first, Zimbabwe set a competitive target of 133 for five in their allotted 20 overs. Captain Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano anchored the innings with an unbeaten 39 from 31 deliveries, while Beloved Biza chipped in with a lively 22.

Earlier, openers Chiedza Dhururu (18) and Kelis Ndhlovu (23) laid a solid foundation with a 35-run opening stand.

Namibia’s Sune Wittmann was the standout bowler, returning figures of 2 for 11 in her four overs.

In pursuit, Namibia’s batters showed glimpses of resistance, with Wittmann (23), Yasmeen Khan (21), and Wilka Mwatile (24 not out) trying to keep their side in contention. However, Zimbabwe’s bowlers struck regularly to dismantle the chase. Nyasha Gwanzura produced a match-winning spell of 3 for 4, supported by Loreen Tshuma who claimed 3 for 24.

Namibia eventually closed on 101 for eight, well short of the target. Mwatile’s late six and two boundaries provided some entertainment but could not prevent Zimbabwe from sealing a convincing victory.

Zimbabwe’s next challenge comes against Sierra Leone on Monday before rounding off their group fixtures against Nigeria on Wednesday. The team sits in Group A alongside Namibia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria, while Group B consists of Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on September 4. The finalists not only battle for the trophy on September 6 but will also earn qualification to the Global Qualifier in Nepal next year.