Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
MASHONALAND Central head coach Ishmael Senzere has attributed his side’s maiden Zimbabwe Cricket Associate League title to teamwork, disciplined bowling, and consistency with the bat.
Central dominated the 50-over provincial competition, which also featured Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Matabeleland North, and Matabeleland South.
They won six of their seven matches to accumulate 24 points and establish an eight-point advantage at the top of the standings. Their only defeat during that sequence came against Matabeleland North at Bindura Country Club.
“I am very happy. We had a great season and played good-quality cricket,” said Senzere.
“The secret was that we wanted our batters to bat for long periods, while our bowlers had to consistently hit the right line and length and target the top of off stump.
“Our fielding was also excellent. We fielded really well, scored a couple of hundreds and recorded several five-wicket hauls,” said coach Senzere.
Central’s title charge was spearheaded by 18-year-old batter Brendon Senzere, who was named Player of the Tournament following a prolific campaign.
The teenager amassed 643 runs from seven matches at an imposing average of 107.17 and a strike rate of 131.76. He struck three centuries and two half-centuries, with an unbeaten 188, his highest score.
His figures meant he averaged almost 92 runs per innings across his seven appearances.
Brendon attributed his form to maintaining a simple routine, working diligently in the nets, and mentally preparing for the situations he expected to encounter at the crease.
“I think my secret was sticking to the basics,” said Brendon.
“Every time I went into the nets, I was focused and tried to visualise what I would be doing when I got to the crease.
“I stuck to the basics and followed my routine before every game. I think that helped me produce good results.”
Brendon’s campaign included a commanding 141 in Central’s 231-run victory over Matabeleland South at Bindura Country Club.
Brendon said returning to school had also allowed him to work on his batting before resuming his campaign in prolific form. “I went back to school and started working on my game,” he said.
“When I returned, I was able to score hundreds again,” he said.
Central’s campaign included a commanding 231-run victory over Matabeleland South after posting 344 for eight. Brendon Senzere struck 141, while Jimmy Nyangoni claimed five wickets for 15 runs as Matabeleland South were dismissed for 113.
Leeroy Chiwaula also underlined Central’s batting strength with an unbeaten 114 in a tense two-run victory over Mashonaland East. Central defended 283 for eight, dismissing their opponents for 281 with two balls remaining.
Blessing Machiha produced another standout bowling display, taking five wickets for 39 runs as Central defeated Mashonaland West by 121 runs. Chiwaula scored 81, and Clive Madziyo contributed 64 in Central’s imposing total of 353.
Captain Wishnenzy Chapfombo also played an influential all-round role during the campaign. He took four wickets for 27 runs in an earlier 61-run victory over Mashonaland West and later contributed with both bat and ball.
“Teamwork contributed to all our wins. We played as a team and remained united throughout the competition,” said coach Senzere.
“I think that unity led us to this success and helped us win our maiden Associate League title,” added coach Senzere.
