Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Zimbabwe women made a strong statement at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, crushing Sierra Leone by 10 wickets to secure their place in the semi-finals.
The victory, achieved with ruthless efficiency, underscored Zimbabwe’s dominance in Group A and left no doubt about their credentials as title contenders.
Zimbabwe’s openers, Modester Mupachikwa (51 off 40 balls) and Kelis Ndhlovu (39 off 32 balls), orchestrated a flawless chase, overhauling Sierra Leone’s modest total of 93/9 in just 12 overs.
Their unbroken partnership of 94 runs showcased aggressive batting, with Mupachikwa’s half-century punctuated by 7 boundaries and Ndhlovu’s supporting act including 5 fours .
The duo’s dominance rendered Sierra Leone’s bowlers helpless, as Zimbabwe raced to victory with a staggering 48 balls to spare.
Earlier, Zimbabwe’s bowlers set the stage for the rout.
Sierra Leone, opting to bat first, stumbled from the outset, losing opener Fatu Conteh in the first over to Joseph Nkomo’s bowling attack.
Wickets fell at regular intervals, with only Cellina Bull (26 off 34 balls) offering resistance.
Zimbabwe’s bowling unit shared the spoils, Josephine Nkomo (3/27) and Nyasha Gwanzura (2/14) were particularly destructive, while Loreen Tshuma, Lindokuhle Mabhero, and Francisca Chipare contributed crucial breakthroughs .
Sierra Leone’s innings never gained momentum, plagued by disciplined line-and-length bowling and sharp fielding.
Zimbabwe captain Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano hailed the team’s all-round excellence.
“We are obviously feeling good and proud of what we have done so far,” she said.
“The girls played well today, especially Modester Mupachikwa and Kelis Ndhlovu for getting to 94 without losing a wicket.”
However, Mugeri pointed out areas for improvement,
“Our batting, we still need to work on that, especially in our powerplay. We’re not happy with the way we’re starting. We’re looking to continue with this form for the upcoming games.”
