Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza-Zimpapers Sports Hub
CAN Zimbabwe women take the lead against the UAE in the third ODI at Queens Sports Club today?
The Lady Chevrons, who are using the series as part of their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier preparations, won the last match by six wickets to level the four-match series at 1-1.
And their show against UAE in the second ODI is what they need more if they are to make an impact.
After winning the toss and choosing to field, the hosts quickly put the visitors on the back foot.
Going into today’s match, the Lady Chevrons will be hoping that Modester Mupachikwa and Kelis Ndhlovu replicate their form from the last match.
Mupachikwa struck six fours in her 52 off 76 balls while Ndhlovu’s 61 off 99 deliveries, featuring eight boundaries, was equally impressive. That the Zimbabwe Women easily closed on 161 for four in 40.2 overs to win the game shows much of the work will also have to be on the bowlers if the Lady Chevrons are to stand a chance.
If they field first, can they restrict the UAE to a low total?
In the last game, Loreen Tshuma spearheaded the bowling effort with three for 36 from her nine overs, while Tendai Makusha and Adel Zimunhu claimed two wickets apiece.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports, Lady Chevrons head coach Walter Chawaguta spoke about strategy.
“I am happy we came back strong in the second ODI after a slow start. This game is a good preparation for us ahead of Nepal,” he said.
“The amount of spin we’re facing is the perfect preparation for us. Teams like the UAE, with six spinners in their ranks, have posed a challenge, but it’s a positive one. This is exactly what we need before we play Nepal.
“When we get there, we’ll favour using the spinners more in our attack. For now, the exposure against so many spin bowlers is invaluable.”
He added: “One of the key messages in the dressing room has been to back ourselves, back our options, our foot-work, and our sweep shots. We’re focusing on being positive and proactive against the spin.
“To maintain this momentum, we’re keeping the game very simple. We’re focusing entirely on the process and the present moment, not the result. We believe if we take care of the process, the result will take care of itself.”
Nyasha Gwanzura also chipped in with two scalps, highlighting Zimbabwe’s collective dominance with the ball.
The T20 match, which will follow after the ODI matches, will test the Lady Chevrons’ resolve ahead of the global qualifier set for Nepal in 2026 in January and February.
