In an exhilarating encounter in Game 10 of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, Namibia delivered a commendable all-around performance to secure a 28-run victory over Kenya. Namibia’s captain opted to bat first, setting a competitive target that proved too much for Kenya to chase.
Namibia’s Strong Batting Performance
Opting to bat, Namibia showed intent from the start. The backbone of their innings was a scintillating knock by Engela Estelle Van Der Merwe, who scored a superb 70 runs off 56 balls, hitting 12 boundaries. Her innings not only provided stability but also added crucial runs at the top of the order, maintaining a strike rate of 125.
Namibia’s innings began positively with Mekelaye Ndaukatekeka Mwatile contributing 24 runs off 30 balls, forming an important 50-run partnership with Van Der Merwe. Despite losing wickets in the middle, Van Der Merwe’s composed innings helped Namibia reach a formidable total of 147/5 in their 20 overs.
Kenya’s Response Falls Short
Chasing 148, Kenya faced an uphill task and struggled early on against Namibia’s disciplined bowling attack. Zainabu Hamisi led the fight for Kenya with a determined 48 runs off 48 balls, hitting five boundaries along the way. She was supported by Melvin Khagoitsa, who contributed a quick 40 runs off 38 balls, but their efforts weren’t enough to chase down the target.
Namibia’s bowlers were in control for most of the innings, with Unombuiro Kauarive Kaanjosa leading the way. She took 3 wickets for 24 runs in her 4-over spell, ensuring that Kenya’s batters struggled to build momentum. Veronika Popyeninawa Tobias also played a key role, taking 2 wickets for 19 runs, as Kenya’s innings ended at 119/6 after 20 overs.
Key Moments of the Match:
- Engela Estelle Van Der Merwe’s 70 off 56 balls: Van Der Merwe’s knock was the highlight of Namibia’s batting. Her ability to find the boundary regularly put Namibia in control.
- Namibia’s bowling dominance: Kauarive Kaanjosa’s 3-wicket haul, supported by Veronika Tobias, was critical in keeping Kenya’s batters at bay.
- Kenya’s fightback falls short: Zainabu Hamisi and Melvin Khagoitsa tried their best, but the consistent fall of wickets kept Kenya behind the required run rate.
Player of the Match:
Without a doubt, Engela Estelle Van Der Merwe was the standout performer, earning the Player of the Match award for her crucial innings of 70 runs and her role in anchoring Namibia’s total.
Match Summary:
- Toss: Namibia opted to bat first.
- Namibia: 147/5 in 20 overs (Engela Estelle Van Der Merwe 70, Mekelaye Ndaukatekeka Mwatile 24; Kreeshna Mehta 2/26)
- Kenya: 119/6 in 20 overs (Zainabu Hamisi 48, Melvin Khagoitsa 40; Unombuiro Kauarive Kaanjosa 3/24, Veronika Popyeninawa Tobias 2/19)
- Result: Namibia won by 28 runs.
