Zimbabwe delivered a commanding performance to overwhelm Mozambique by 9 wickets in their second ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier B match.
Mozambique, opting to bat first, faced a relentless Zimbabwean bowling attack, collapsing for just 56 runs in 13.1 overs. Richard Ngarava led the destruction, claiming 4 wickets for just 16 runs in his 4-over spell, including key breakthroughs in the top order.
Blessing Muzarabani also made significant contributions, taking 3 wickets for a mere 8 runs. Sikandar Raza added two wickets to wrap up the tail, while Trevor Gwandu took away 1/6.
Mozambique’s innings never struggled with partnerships and momentum, with their highest scorer, Agostinho Navicha, managing only 14 runs from 18 balls. The rest of the lineup faltered, including Joao Hou and Francisco Couana, who were dismissed for 2 and 0 respectively.
Mozambique lost wickets constantly, and by the 5th over, they were reeling at 25/6, unable to handle the extreme pace and accuracy of the experienced Zimbabwean bowlers.
In response, Zimbabwe made quick work of the modest target, chasing 57 runs in just 5 overs at a quick run rate of 11.40. Brian Bennett smashed 31 off 19 balls, including 5 fours and 1 six, before falling to Dario Macome. Tadiwanashe Marumani stayed unbeaten on 10, supported by Dion Myers, who blasted 8 from 3 balls, sealing the win.
This dominant victory strengthens Zimbabwe’s position as they march forward in the qualifying tournament. Mozambique’s struggle continues but the zeal to do their best is seen in all matches played.
Kenya Ease Past Rwanda in Tense Low-Scoring Clash at Nairobi Gymkhana
Kenya secured a 5-wicket victory over Rwanda in a closely fought contest during their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier B match. Rwanda, batting first, managed to post a modest total of 100/7 in their 20 overs, with contributions from Didier Ndikubwimana 29(38) and Emile Rukiriza 18(15).
However, the Kenyan bowlers kept things tight, with Lucas Oluoch 2/14 and Sachin Gill 1/14 leading the way. Pushkar Sharma’s crucial 1/18 and Shem Ngoche’s 1/23 also added to the wickets list.
Rwanda’s top order crumbled early, losing Oscar Manishimwe 7(19) and Wilson Niyitanga 4(5) within the first five overs. Despite a steady partnership between Ndikubwimana and Yves Cyusa 12(17), Kenya’s disciplined bowling, combined with sharp fielding, restricted Rwanda to a below-par total.
In response, Kenya had a shaky start, losing opener Pushkar Sharma (0) on the very first ball to Zappy Bimenyimana. By the end of the first over, they had lost two wickets, with Rushab Patel 1(3) also falling cheaply.
Rwanda’s bowlers, especially Bimenyimana 2/19 and Muhammad Nadir 1/13, who took Rakep Patel’s wicket, strengthened the claws of the Rwandans as they closed all gates for runs with great pressure as they reduced Kenya to 30/4 after 8 overs.
However, the experienced duo of Irfan Karim 30(40) and Sachin Bhudia 39(21) stabilised the innings. Bhudia’s quickfire knock, which included seven boundaries and a six, turned the tide in Kenya’s favour. Despite losing Bhudia towards the end, Kenya chased down the target comfortably in 15 overs, finishing on 101/5.
This victory strengthens Kenya’s campaign on qualifying to the regional qualifier, but Rwanda will be heads down with their batting performance including a rear hit wicket by Martin Akayezu, despite a commendable effort with the ball.
Match Summaries:
Seychelles v Gambia
Seychelles awarded match points.
Mozambique v Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bowl first.
Mozambique: 56/10 (13.1 Overs)
Zimbabwe: 57/1 (5.0 Overs)
Zimbabwe won by 9 wickets
Rwanda v Kenya
The hosts won the toss and elected to bat first.
Rwanda: 100/7 (20 Overs)
Kenya: 101/5 (15 Overs)
Kenya won by 5 wickets
Courtesy Photos
