Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Lady Chevrons have moved within touching distance of victory in their home series after a disciplined bowling display carried them to a 35-run win over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the third Women’s One Day International(Wodi) at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo yesterday.
The result means Zimbabwe, who had trailed after losing the first match, now lead the four-match Wodi series 2-1 with just one game remaining.
Tomorrow’s decider has become a must-win contest for both sides, with Zimbabwe aiming to seal the trophy and UAE desperate to square the series.
Put in to bat after UAE won the toss, Zimbabwe were in trouble at 46/4 in the 16th over. But a brilliant 113-run fifth-wicket partnership between Loryn Phiri and Josephine Nkomo turned the innings around. It was the second-highest fifth-wicket stand and seventh-highest partnership overall in the country’s WODI history.
Phiri anchored the innings with her maiden half century, scoring 69 from 94 balls, while Nkomo’s composed 52 off 76 balls was her fourth 50 in the format. Both struck four boundaries each. Modester Mupachikwa (19) and Chiedza Dhururu (17 not out) added important runs as Zimbabwe closed on 203/7 in their 50 overs.
For UAE, Athige Silva, Esha Oza, and Indhuja Nandakumar took two wickets apiece, while Michelle Botha chipped in with one.
In defence of their total, the Lady Chevrons struck early when Adel Zimunu removed UAE skipper Oza for 5, leaving the visitors 12/1. Lindokuhle Mabhera then claimed the key wickets of Lavanya Keny (16) and Heena Hotchandani (40), finishing with superb figures of 3/21 in her 10 overs. Zimunu added 2/29, while Loreen Tshuma, Tendai Makusha, and Phiri also made breakthroughs.
From 98/4, UAE slumped to 130/7, their chase eventually stalling at 168/8 in 50 overs. Hotchandani top-scored with 40, but the visitors never fully recovered from Zimbabwe’s relentless bowling.
Meanwhile, Bulawayo cricket fans will get more action today when Amakhosi Cricket Club 1 meet Queens Sports Club in a National Premier League derby at Bulawayo Athletic Club. Both sides are searching for a response after defeats in their previous outings. Amakhosi have one win from three games, while Queens are still hunting their first victory. The match starts at 11am with free entry for all spectators.
