Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
AMAKHOSI Cricket Club 1 underlined their National Premier League (NPL) title credentials with a hard fought four wicket win over city rivals Queens Sports Club in a low scoring derby at the weekend.
The victory lifted Amakhosi to 18 points, cementing third place on the table. They trail log leaders SOGO Rangers by four points and are two behind second-placed Takashinga Patriots 1, with the competition now entering its decisive phase.
After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, Amakhosi bundled out Queens for just 110 in 22.3 overs. Munashe Chimusoro was the lone standout, hitting a battling 65 off 54 balls, while wickets fell steadily around him. Only one other batter managed double figures.
Amakhosi’s attack was ruthless. Talent Dzikiti struck early, removing Dananai Rangayi in the second over before Ernest Masuku accounted for Rowyn Konson. Dzikiti returned to dismiss veteran Chris Mpofu, leaving Queens reeling at 10 for three inside four overs.
Chimusoro tried to steady the innings, first with a 31-run stand with Nkosana Mpofu (16), then a 50-run partnership with Petros Sithole. But once Sithole went for four, the collapse resumed. Tinaye Mazonde ripped through the middle order with 5 for 17, while Dzikiti finished with 3 for 18. Tawanda Maposa chipped in with 2 wickets.
Chasing 111, Amakhosi had to sweat. Bright Phiri fell in the first over to Mpofu, and Queens kept chipping away with regular strikes. Adrian Mupembe (6), Cunningham Ncube (8), and Pascal Murungi (8) all fell cheaply, while Tafara Mupariwa’s 24 provided some resistance. Maposa’s brisk 22 kept them on course before veteran Brian Chari anchored the chase with an unbeaten 27 off 45 balls. He and Masuku (4 not out) guided Amakhosi home in the 26th over at 112 for 6.
The win was Amakhosi’s ninth in 11 matches. For Queens, it was their fifth defeat in 11 games.
Amakhosi now turn their focus to Eastern Titans in Masvingo on Thursday, while Queens face a tough assignment against SOGO Rangers in Kwekwe. — @brandon_malvin
