In a closely contested Game 11 of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, Zimbabwe edged out Tanzania by 13 runs in a tense encounter. Opting to bat first, Zimbabwe posted a modest total but managed to defend it successfully with an exceptional bowling performance, securing a much-needed win in the tournament.
Zimbabwe’s Innings: A Steady Start
Zimbabwe elected to bat first after winning the toss but found themselves in a tricky situation as Tanzania’s bowlers kept things tight. Zimbabwe’s opener, Runyararo Pasipanodya, anchored the innings with a steady 35 runs off 39 balls, hitting five boundaries and ensuring her side kept the scoreboard ticking.
While the middle order struggled, Passionate Munorwei contributed 21 runs off 35 balls to help Zimbabwe reach 114/7 in their 20 overs. Tanzanian bowler Lightness Eliud Elisha was impressive, taking 2 wickets for just 16 runs in her 4 overs, while Jenipher Gabriel Kimaro applied pressure with her economical spell, slowing Zimbabwe’s run rate.
Tanzania’s Fightback: Kimaro Shines
Chasing 115 to win, Tanzania found themselves in early trouble, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, Jenipher Gabriel Kimaro fought valiantly with a well-played 47 runs off 45 balls, including seven boundaries. Her innings kept Tanzania’s hopes alive, but they struggled to build significant partnerships around her.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers kept Tanzania in check, with Chipo Moyo standing out with her brilliant spell of 2 wickets for 6 runs in just 3 overs. Beloved Biza also contributed with the ball, taking a crucial wicket and conceding only 11 runs in her 4-over spell, keeping the pressure on Tanzania throughout the chase.
Despite Kimaro’s efforts, Tanzania could only manage 100/9 in their 20 overs, falling short by 13 runs.
Key Moments of the Match:
- Runyararo Pasipanodya’s solid 35: Pasipanodya’s top score laid the foundation for Zimbabwe’s total, even as wickets fell around her.
- Jenipher Gabriel Kimaro’s fighting 47: Kimaro’s innings gave Tanzania hope, but a lack of support from the other batters proved costly.
- Chipo Moyo’s game-changing spell: Moyo’s 2/6 in 3 overs swung the match in Zimbabwe’s favor, as her economical bowling stifled Tanzania’s chase.
Player of the Match:
Chipo Moyo was named Player of the Match for her exceptional bowling performance, finishing with figures of 2/6 and playing a vital role in defending Zimbabwe’s total.
Match Summary:
- Toss: Zimbabwe opted to bat first.
- Zimbabwe: 114/7 in 20 overs (Runyararo Pasipanodya 35, Passionate Munorwei 21; Lightness Eliud Elisha 2/16)
- Tanzania: 100/9 in 20 overs (Jenipher Gabriel Kimaro 47; Chipo Moyo 2/6, Beloved Biza 1/11)
- Result: Zimbabwe won by 13 runs.
