Zimbabwe were simply too good all week, clinching five victories at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s Twenty20 World Cup Africa Qualifier held in Entebbe, Uganda.
Having already secured their spot in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) with a decisive 86-run victory over Namibia in the semifinals, the Lady Chevrons continued their dominance with a superb all round performance in the final.
*Razor-sharp Marange
Facing Uganda, Zimbabwe made quick work of their opponents, limiting them to a mere 79 runs in 20 overs. A standout moment came in the crucial 19th over when classy veteran Precious Marange showcased her spin prowess, claiming four wickets for none. This exceptional bowling spell paved the way for a 6-wicket victory, securing the championship trophy.
In a remarkable display, the 41-year-old Marange not only achieved the first hat-trick and five-wicket haul of the 10-day tournament but also earned the Player of the Match award with figures of 5 wickets for 7 runs. Nyasha Gwanzura (1/3) and Loreen Tshuma (1/13) complemented Marange’s efforts, preventing Uganda’s batters from setting a challenging target despite fighting knocks of Stephanie Nampiina (26) and Rita Musamali (24*).
Zimbabwe’s chase was led by captain Mary-Ann Musonda (21) and Modester Mupachikwa (22), who confidently amassed 25 runs within the first three overs, dispelling any concerns of an upset from the home team.
*Fight in vain
Despite Uganda’s Rita Musamali putting up a fight with an unbeaten 24 not out, Zimbabwe maintained control. Musamali did contribute with two wickets, dismissing Mupachikwa and Ashley Ndiraya, but it was not enough to derail Zimbabwe’s victory.
Uganda’s Musamali gave the good crowd at the lakeside Entebbe Cricket Oval some moments to cheer with two wickets; bowling out Mupachikwa and dismissing Ashley Ndiraya (10) caught and bowled, but it was not enough to derail Zimbabwe’s victory.
Victoria Pearls captain Concy Aweko and her vice, Janet Mbabazi, also wrapped up the match with a consolation wicket apiece in a fruitful campaign for the home team that leaves them with plenty of work to do in the build up to the voyage to the Middle East. Zimbabwe too, will continue refining their skills as they push for a spot in Bangladesh next year.
*Top performers
In a comprehensive campaign, Precious Marange received the Player of the Tournament Award, amassing 13 wickets for just 51 runs with an impressive economy of 2.86 runs per over and average of 3.92.
Her tally of 690 points, over the event, was only rivalled by teenage sensation Kelis Ndhlovu (530), who picked up the team’s only other Player of the Match award and contributed equally with both bat and ball for her team throughout the event with an average of 29 in her four innings and an economy rate of 3.75.
Uganda’s Mbabazi scooped the Best Bowler award with 9 wickets for 69 runs from 19.4 overs during which she delivered 71 dot balls whereas Mupachikwa picked up the Best Batter award with 131 runs at an average of 43.67. Nigeria’s Sarah Etim took the consolation award of Best Fielder.
