Online Reporter
Sports Reporter
THE last time the Chevrons played Tanzania in a T20 World Cup qualifier, it turned into a mismatch.
The two countries met in Windhoek on November 23, 2023 in an ICC T20 World Cup qualifier.
Zimbabwe bounced back from their opening day defeat to Namibia with a victory over Tanzania by nine wickets on day two of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier in Windhoek.
The Chevrons raced to an emphatic nine-wicket win, needing just half of their allotted 20 overs to complete victory. The two sides meet again today at Harare Sports Club with the Chevrons, who have already qualified for the semi-finals, looking for a perfect record in their group.
That would certainly mean they avoid Namibia, who look like the second strongest side in the tournament, in the semi-finals on Thursday.
Two years ago, the scenario was different. The Chevrons had just lost the first game to Namibia and were under pressure to win against Tanzania.
Zimbabwe won the toss and bowled first, restricting Tanzania to just 96 for nine in their 20 overs.
Richard Ngarava (three for 17) and Sikandar Raza (three for 10) were the pick of the bowlers, as Zimbabwe looked to get their campaign back on track. Salum Ally’s late striking saw Tanzania nearly reach 100, as he spanked two sixes and a boundary in a spirited unbeaten 24, batting at number 10.
Zimbabwe gave away 14 extras, but their general fielding and catching would have pleased them no end.
In their chase, the Zimbabwean top three all made starts.
Innocent Kaia (21 from 18 balls) was the solitary wicket to fall, but Tadiwanashe Marumani (39 off 27 balls) and Sean Williams (36 off 19 balls) hurried home, clubbing ten boundaries between them.
Two of those were sixes smashed by Marumani as they put on a hasty 62 for the unbroken second wicket.
Zimbabwe sailed home with 56 balls to spare. – Sports Reporter/sportsdesk.co.ke
