Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza-Zimpapers Sports Hub
A half-century from Chiedza Dhururu was not enough to save Zimbabwe women from defeat, as the Lady Chevrons lost by 35 runs to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the opening T20I at Queens Sports Club yesterday.
It was UAE captain Esha Oza who did most of the damage. Her magnificent, boundary-laden 97 propelled them to victory, setting up a commanding 1-0 lead in the series.
After being put into bat, the UAE onslaught was led from the front by their openers.
Oza was in devastating form, tearing into the Zimbabwean bowling attack with a stunning 55-ball knock that included 16 fours and a six.
She narrowly missed a well-deserved century, caught by Francisca Chipare off the bowling of Lindokuhle Mabhero.
At the other end, her opening partner, Theertha Satish, provided steadfast support with a composed 49 from 50 deliveries, anchoring the innings in a formidable partnership.
The foundation they laid allowed UAE to post a challenging total of 183 for 3 from their 20 overs. Facing a steep target of 184, Zimbabwe’s chase never found its rhythm against a disciplined UAE bowling attack.
The innings was crippled early by a double collapse from the top order.
Opener Nyasha Gwanzura laboured to just 4 runs off 7 deliveries, but the critical damage was done when both Modester Mupachikwa and Loreen Tshuma fell for ducks in quick succession, leaving Zimbabwe in a deep hole at 17 for 3.
The match was firmly orchestrated by UAE’s Samaira Dharnidharka, who ripped through the batting lineup with a crucial three-wicket haul, well-supported by Siya Gokhale who chipped in with two wickets.
A valiant, lone fightback came from Chiedza Dhururu, who played a resilient unbeaten innings of 67 from 58 balls.
She found a willing partner in Josephine Nkomo, who blasted a quickfire 43 from 33 deliveries. Their partnership offered a glimmer of hope, but the required run rate had spiralled out of control.
Despite their brave efforts, Zimbabwe’s innings closed at 148 for 6, falling 35 runs short.
The victory gives the United Arab Emirates a dominant start to the T20 series, going into the second and final T20I.
