Result: Malawi won by 7 wickets
Match Date: 26th September 2024
Venue: ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers
In a thrilling contest for the 7th position in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers, Malawi triumphed over Kenya with a comfortable 7-wicket win. Opting to field first after winning the toss, Malawi’s disciplined bowling proved too strong for Kenya, who were restricted to just 70 runs in their 20 overs. In response, Malawi chased down the target with ease, sealing victory in 15.4 overs.
Kenya’s Innings: Struggles to Post a Competitive Total
Kenya, batting first, found themselves in trouble early on, losing wickets at regular intervals. Zainabu Hamisi (24 off 36 balls) offered some resistance, hitting three boundaries, but lacked substantial support from her teammates. The next best score came from Mercy Kudimba, who managed 22 off 33 balls, but the Kenyan batters struggled against Malawi’s tight bowling attack.
Malawi’s bowlers were on top of their game, with Christina Bwanali leading the charge. Bwanali’s 4-wicket haul (4-0-13-4) decimated Kenya’s middle order, while Esther Richard (2-1-1-2) and Alinafe Alfonso (2-0-4-2) added further pressure. Kenya managed to reach only 70 runs by the end of their allotted 20 overs.
- Kenya’s Batting Highlights:
- Zainabu Hamisi: 24 (36 balls, 3 fours)
- Mercy Kudimba: 22 (33 balls, 1 four)
Malawi’s Bowling Highlights:
- Christina Bwanali: 4-0-13-4 (Player of the Match)
- Esther Richard: 2-1-1-2
- Alinafe Alfonso: 2-0-4-2
Malawi’s Chase: A Comfortable Pursuit
Chasing a modest target of 71, Malawi approached their innings cautiously. While they lost a couple of wickets early, Euless Chilarile anchored the chase with a well-constructed 27 off 39 balls, ensuring her team never lost control of the game. Supported by Mercy Kudimba (22 off 33 balls), Chilarile’s composed knock guided Malawi to 74/3 in 15.4 overs.
The chase was made easier by Kenya’s lack of penetration with the ball, with only Stella Idagiza managing to keep things tight with her 2/14. However, the total was simply too low to defend, and Malawi cruised to victory with 26 balls to spare.
- Malawi’s Batting Highlights:
- Euless Chilarile: 27 (39 balls, 3 fours)
- Mercy Kudimba: 22 (33 balls, 1 four)
Kenya’s Bowling Highlights:
- Stella Idagiza: 4-0-14-2
Player of the Match:
Christina Bwanali (Malawi) for her outstanding bowling performance of 4/13, which was crucial in dismantling Kenya’s batting lineup and setting up the win.
Match Summary:
- Kenya: 70/10 in 20 overs (Zainabu Hamisi 24, Christina Bwanali 4/13)
- Malawi: 74/3 in 15.4 overs (Euless Chilarile 27, Mercy Kudimba 22)
Malawi’s comprehensive performance, led by Christina Bwanali’s brilliant spell of bowling, earned them a well-deserved 7th place in the tournament. Kenya’s batting woes continued as they struggled to build momentum throughout the game, falling short of a competitive total. Malawi’s calm chase under pressure ensured a smooth victory, capping off their campaign with a win.
