Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE Under-19 Women completed an unbeaten group campaign at the ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier after cruising to a five-wicket victory over Namibia in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, yesterday.
The Young Chevrons dismissed Namibia for 86 in 18.2 overs before reaching 87 for five in 12.5 overs to seal their third successive victory and advance to the semi-finals.
Despite the perfect record, coach Trevor Garwe believes his charges are yet to produce their best cricket, pointing to the top order as one area requiring improvement ahead of the knockout stage.
“As a team, I don’t think we have played our best game so far,” said Garwe.
“If we look at our batting, our top order hasn’t clicked as much as we would have wanted or as much as they have been performing.
“I think that is the only concern. I am sure as they get used to the conditions here, we will definitely see a massive improvement in those areas.”
Against Namibia, Zimbabwe’s bowlers once again laid the foundation for victory.
Buhlebenkosi Maposa claimed three wickets for 18 runs from four overs to earn the Player of the Match award.
Felicity Mpofu chipped in with two for eight.
Elly Kambonde provided Namibia’s main resistance with 45 from 43 balls, while Zanelle Steyn contributed 17 from 20 before their innings folded with 10 balls remaining.
Zimbabwe were rarely troubled in the chase despite losing five wickets.
Tadiwanashe Garutsa led the way with 31 from 32 deliveries, while Beloved Biza struck a quickfire 19 from nine balls as the Young Chevrons reached their target with 43 balls to spare.
Garwe was satisfied with securing a semi-final berth but said there was still work to be done as the competition enters its decisive phase.
“The team has performed so far. It might not really be as we want, but they have done well and we are through to the semi-finals, so that is a big positive for us,” he said.
