Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo
CRICKET fans in Zimbabwe witnessed history this week as the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) wrapped up their long-awaited return to the country with a thrilling T20 series win over the Zimbabwe Academy at Takashinga Cricket Club.
It was a tour 60 years in the making and one that reignited ties between Zimbabwean cricket and the iconic custodians of Lord’s Cricket Ground. MCC’s visit included two T20s and a 50-over clash against the Rhinos in Kwekwe, a three-day showdown with Zimbabwe “A” at Old Hararians, and a gripping three-match T20 series in Harare’s Highfield suburb — the heartland of township cricket.
The series was a rollercoaster from start to finish. MCC claimed the rain-affected opener on Tuesday morning, only for the Zimbabwe Academy to snatch a last-ball victory in the afternoon fixture. But the decider on Wednesday belonged to the visitors, who pulled off a 23-run triumph to secure the series.
MCC’s innings was powered by openers Will Smale and Sam Arthurton, who put on 54 runs in just 5.2 overs before a flurry of wickets threatened to derail the innings. Enter Alistair Frost, who blazed 34 not out off 24 balls, and Ben Allison, whose 30 off 18 deliveries steadied the ship. MCC finished with a competitive 171/6 in 20 overs, leaving the Academy with plenty to chase. Victor Chirwa impressed with the ball, claiming two wickets in one over, while Ryan Simbi also bagged two scalps.
Zimbabwe Academy’s chase started in disaster when Ashley Mufandauya was run out before facing a ball. Chirwa (32) and Simba Mudzengerere (16) tried to anchor the innings, but wickets fell at crucial moments. Panashe Taruvinga injected hope with 37 off 23 balls, but when he was bowled by Michael Frost at 132/5, the task became almost impossible. Ronak Patel fought bravely with 43 off 42, but his dismissal sealed the Academy’s fate as they were bowled out for 148 off the penultimate delivery.
MCC’s bowlers finished the job with style. Mo Rizvi claimed two wickets for 29 runs, while Blessing Mangove struck twice in the final over to wrap up both the match and the series.
Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni hailed the tour as more than just a cricketing contest. “We are proud and thrilled to welcome MCC back to Zimbabwe after six decades.
This historic tour is a celebration of our cricketing heritage and a testament to the enduring friendship between Zimbabwe and England,” Makoni said.
The tour not only brought thrilling cricket to the fans but also highlighted Zimbabwe’s rich cricketing history and the talent emerging from township cricket hubs like Takashinga. MCC’s win may belong in the record books, but the excitement and inspiration will linger long in the minds of local fans.
