Windhoek, Namibia – In a nail-biting finish, Namibia Women defeated Zimbabwe Women by 5 wickets with just three balls remaining in the 6th match of the Namibia Women’s T20I Tri-Series at the Wanderers Cricket Ground on September 11, 2024. The win, led by captain Sune Wittmann’s half-century and a vital cameo by Mekelaye Mwatile, showcased Namibia’s resilience in chasing down Zimbabwe’s total of 133.
Opting to field first, Namibia Women restricted Zimbabwe to 133/7 in their 20 overs. Zimbabwe’s innings was built around solid contributions from Modester Mupachikwa and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, both scoring 31 runs each. Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe’s batters were unable to capitalize on the foundation, with Namibia’s bowlers putting in disciplined performances.
The bowling attack was spearheaded by Wilka Mwatile, who picked up 2 wickets for 30 runs, while Jurriene Diergaardt also took two crucial wickets, conceding only 20 runs in her 4 overs.
In response, Namibia’s chase was anchored by their captain Sune Wittmann, who played a captain’s knock of 56 from 48 balls, including 7 boundaries and a six. Her innings set up a strong platform, and though Namibia faced a mini-collapse, Mekelaye Mwatile‘s unbeaten 23 off just 9 balls proved decisive in steering her team to victory.
Zimbabwe’s Beloved Biza was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 22 runs, while Passionate Munorwei took 2 wickets for 12 runs. However, their efforts weren’t enough to prevent Namibia from reaching the target of 134 with 3 balls to spare.
Key Highlights:
- Sune Wittmann was Namibia’s hero, scoring a crucial 56 off 48 balls.
- Mekelaye Mwatile‘s quickfire 23 off 9 balls* ensured Namibia’s win in the final moments.
- Zimbabwe’s innings was held together by Modester Mupachikwa and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, both scoring 31.
- Wilka Mwatile and Jurriene Diergaardt were the pick of the Namibian bowlers, taking 2 wickets each.
- Beloved Biza delivered an excellent spell, taking 3 wickets for Zimbabwe.
Brief Scores:
Zimbabwe Women: 133/7 in 20 overs (Modester Mupachikwa 31, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano 31, Wilka Mwatile 2/30, Jurriene Diergaardt 2/20)
Namibia Women: 134/5 in 19.3 overs (Sune Wittmann 56, Mekelaye Mwatile 23*, Beloved Biza 3/22, Passionate Munorwei 2/12)
Result: Namibia Women won by 5 wickets (with 3 balls remaining)
Player of the Match: Sune Wittmann (NAM-W) – 56 off 48 balls
This victory marked the highest match aggregate of 267 runs between Zimbabwe and Namibia in WT20Is, showcasing the growing competition between the two teams in the Namibia Women’s T20I Tri-Series.
