Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
LADY Chevrons all-rounder Nyasha Gwanzura has challenged Zimbabwe’s top order to improve their strike rotation when they face South Africa Women in the fourth T20 International cricket encounter at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo today.
The Lady Chevrons trail 3-0 in the five-match series after suffering an 80-run defeat in the third encounter at the same venue on Tuesday.
South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt powered an unbeaten 126 off 62 deliveries as the tourists posted an imposing 200 for one before dismissing Zimbabwe for 120 in 19.3 overs.
Gwanzura, who scored 28 off 23 balls, believes the Lady Chevrons have allowed pressure to build by facing too many dot balls.
“As a top order, our strike rotation has let us down,” said Gwanzura.
“The more dot balls you face, the more pressure you put on yourself. That is one area we need to improve.”
Zimbabwe’s batting has struggled throughout the series, with the hosts bowled out for 116 in the opening match before managing 129 for seven while chasing 194 in the second encounter.
Their difficulties continued on Tuesday when the top order collapsed against South Africa all-rounder Annerie Dercksen, who claimed career-best figures of five for 15. Zimbabwe were reduced to 35 for six before Michelle Mavunga provided resistance with a brisk 41 off 23 deliveries.
Gwanzura, who has been entrusted with opening the batting, said she was still adjusting to the new responsibility.
“Batting at the top of the order is a new experience for me, but I have not changed my approach,” she said.
“I am still looking to play attacking cricket, only that I am now doing it from the beginning of the innings.
“It was only my third match in that role, so I am still finding my feet, but I believe I am gradually getting there.”
Despite the series already being beyond Zimbabwe’s reach, the remaining two matches present an opportunity for the hosts to restore pride and register their first victory under newly-appointed head coach Mark Coles. Gwanzura said the Lady Chevrons were treating the series as an important learning experience against one of the leading teams in international women’s cricket.
“We are gaining valuable experience from playing against them and learning as we go,” she said.
“For me, the key is to keep things simple. I know and trust my game, and I have to play every delivery on its merit. If the ball is in my scoring zone, I will attack it.
“We are still building towards our ultimate goal, and these matches are helping us gain the experience we need.”
South Africa will be seeking to maintain their dominance and move closer to completing a series whitewash, while Zimbabwe will look for a more disciplined batting display. The fifth and final T20I will be played at the same venue on Saturday.
