Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
COLOSSAL six from Tashinga Musekiwa sealed a thrilling five-wicket win for Zimbabwe over Namibia in the second T20I at Queens Sports Club on Tuesday, handing the Chevrons an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.Needing six runs off the final two overs, Musekiwa launched the very first ball of the 19th over into the stands to spark wild celebrations as Zimbabwe finished on 170/5 in just 18.1 overs.
Earlier, after winning the toss and electing to field, Zimbabwe restricted Namibia to 169/6.
Richard Ngarava and Bradley Evans were lethal with the ball, grabbing two wickets apiece.
Tinotenda Maposa and Sikandar Raza chipped in with a wicket each to keep the visitors in check.Namibia’s Nicol Loftie-Eaton fought hard, smashing 47 runs off 30 balls, while Malan Kruger steadied the innings with a gritty 45 off 44 deliveries.
In reply, Zimbabwe’s chase was powered by Tadiwanashe Marumani, who top-scored with 50 runs off 36 balls.
He featured in two crucial half-century stands that kept the hosts on course.
Brian Bennett’s explosive 40 off 20 deliveries earned him the player of the match award, while Brendan Taylor added 29 off 26.
Ryan Burl kept his cool to remain unbeaten on 24 off just 13 balls.
Namibian bowler JJ Smit was the pick of their attack, claiming two wickets, but it wasn’t enough to stop Zimbabwe’s charge.
The series finale will be played on Thursday at Queens Sports Club, with the first ball set to be bowled at 1:30pm.
Londile Moyo