Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Under-19 Women coach Trevor Garwe has challenged his players to guard against complacency when they face Uganda in the semi-finals of the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Thursday (today).
The Young Lady Chevrons take on the Baby Victoria Pearls at the Estim Ground at 1pm Zimbabwean time, seeking a place in Saturday’s final against Nigeria or Rwanda.
Zimbabwe advanced to the knockout stage after winning all three Group B matches, beating Rwanda by 51 runs, Kenya by 79 runs and Namibia by five wickets.
Despite their perfect record, Garwe wants his charges to concentrate on executing their plans rather than allowing thoughts of World Cup qualification to distract them.
“Finishing the group stage with three wins is a major boost for us. It has strengthened the players’ confidence and created a winning culture within the changing room,” Garwe said.
“This team has shown that it knows how to win matches. Even when we are under pressure, the players find a way to get over the line, and that has been one of the most impressive aspects of our campaign.”
Zimbabwe’s bowlers have been central to their unbeaten run, dismissing Rwanda for 88, Kenya for 49 and Namibia for 86.
However, they will face a Uganda side which has also demonstrated strength with the ball.
Uganda recovered from a four-wicket defeat to Nigeria in their opening match to dismiss Tanzania for 41 and Malawi for 44, winning those encounters by five wickets and 10 wickets respectively.
Garwe believes respecting the opposition and concentrating on the fundamentals will be crucial in the knockout encounter.
“Our focus heading into the semi-final is on executing our plans rather than worrying too much about the opposition,” he said.
“We continue to remind the players to respect the game and their opponents because that leaves no room for complacency.
“We are not looking too far ahead. Winning the final and qualifying for the 2027 World Cup remains our ultimate goal, but we want the players to approach the tournament one match at a time.”
