News / National
Zimbabwe crushes Kenya
2 hrs ago | 28 Views
Zimbabwe's Chevrons made a strong statement ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier, dismantling Kenya by nine wickets in a warm-up match at Takashinga Cricket Club yesterday.
The hosts needed just 13 overs to chase down a modest target of 97, sealing a commanding victory that underlined their readiness for the high-stakes tournament starting this week in Harare.
Kenya, who never found their rhythm with the bat, posted 96 for 8 in their 20 overs. Rakep Patel top-scored with 24 off 25 balls, but the Zimbabwean bowlers kept the visitors under constant pressure.
Seamer Brad Evans starred with the ball, claiming 3 for 26 in his four overs to earn the Man of the Match accolade. Richard Ngarava chipped in with 2 for 19, while veteran paceman Blessing Muzarabani was almost unplayable, conceding just six runs and taking a wicket in his spell.
In reply, Zimbabwe's openers wasted no time. Brian Bennett blazed 33 off 25 balls in a rapid start that brought 51 runs in the powerplay before retiring to allow others to bat. Tadiwanashe Marumani was the only casualty, dismissed for 14.
The experienced pair of Brendan Taylor (20 not out) and Sean Williams (21 not out) then saw the Chevrons home with 7.4 overs to spare, finishing on 100 for 1.
The result is a confidence booster for Zimbabwe as they prepare to host the ICC T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier from September 26 to October 4. Eight nations will battle it out in Harare, with only two booking their places at next year's T20 World Cup.
With such a dominant performance in their opening warm-up, the Chevrons have signaled their intent to reclaim a spot on the global stage.
The hosts needed just 13 overs to chase down a modest target of 97, sealing a commanding victory that underlined their readiness for the high-stakes tournament starting this week in Harare.
Kenya, who never found their rhythm with the bat, posted 96 for 8 in their 20 overs. Rakep Patel top-scored with 24 off 25 balls, but the Zimbabwean bowlers kept the visitors under constant pressure.
Seamer Brad Evans starred with the ball, claiming 3 for 26 in his four overs to earn the Man of the Match accolade. Richard Ngarava chipped in with 2 for 19, while veteran paceman Blessing Muzarabani was almost unplayable, conceding just six runs and taking a wicket in his spell.
In reply, Zimbabwe's openers wasted no time. Brian Bennett blazed 33 off 25 balls in a rapid start that brought 51 runs in the powerplay before retiring to allow others to bat. Tadiwanashe Marumani was the only casualty, dismissed for 14.
The experienced pair of Brendan Taylor (20 not out) and Sean Williams (21 not out) then saw the Chevrons home with 7.4 overs to spare, finishing on 100 for 1.
The result is a confidence booster for Zimbabwe as they prepare to host the ICC T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier from September 26 to October 4. Eight nations will battle it out in Harare, with only two booking their places at next year's T20 World Cup.
With such a dominant performance in their opening warm-up, the Chevrons have signaled their intent to reclaim a spot on the global stage.
Source - Newsday
