Windhoek, Namibia – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Women secured the 2024 Namibia Women’s T20I Tri-Series title with a dominant 9-wicket victory over Zimbabwe Women in the 8th match of the series, held on September 13, 2024, at the Wanderers Cricket Ground. A brilliant knock of 81 off 54 balls* by Theertha Satish helped chase down the 129-run target with 22 balls to spare, sealing the win for UAE.
Zimbabwe’s Competitive Total
Zimbabwe Women posted 128/7 after electing to bat first. Beloved Biza was the top scorer with an impressive 36 off 31 balls, while Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano added 32 off 26. Zimbabwe got off to a steady start, with Kelis Ndhlovu (32) contributing early, but they lost wickets at crucial stages.
UAE’s bowlers kept Zimbabwe in check, with Samaira Dharnidharka leading the way, taking 2 wickets for 25 runs. Esha Oza was equally effective with her tight spell, finishing with 1/18 from her four overs.
Despite some late-order contributions, Zimbabwe’s total of 128/7 seemed below par on a good batting surface.
Theertha Satish’s Match-Winning Knock
In reply, UAE Women got off to a confident start. Esha Oza (17 off 21) and Theertha Satish provided a solid foundation, with Satish taking charge of the chase. Even after Oza fell with the score at 49/1, Satish continued her aggressive approach.
Satish’s unbeaten 81 off 54 balls*, which included 9 fours and 1 six, kept the pressure on Zimbabwe’s bowlers throughout the chase. She found an able partner in Kavisha Egodage (26* off 24), as the pair put on a match-winning partnership of 81 runs to take UAE to the title. The duo’s partnership ensured UAE crossed the target comfortably in just 16.2 overs.
Key Performers:
- Theertha Satish starred with an exceptional 81 off 54 balls*, playing the anchor role in the chase and was rightfully named the Player of the Match.
- Beloved Biza and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano were the key contributors for Zimbabwe with the bat, but their efforts were not enough to defend their total.
- Samaira Dharnidharka was UAE’s standout bowler, picking up 2 wickets and maintaining control during Zimbabwe’s innings.
Key Records and Moments:
- Theertha Satish’s 81* is one of the standout innings of the tournament, guiding UAE to a comfortable victory and clinching the series title.
- UAE’s comprehensive chase with 22 balls remaining underlined their dominance throughout the series.
- UAE Women have won the Namibia Women’s T20I Tri-Series, showcasing their strength and consistency in the tournament.
Brief Scores:
Zimbabwe Women: 128/7 in 20 overs (Beloved Biza 36, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano 32; Samaira Dharnidharka 2/25, Esha Oza 1/18)
UAE Women: 130/1 in 16.2 overs (Theertha Satish 81*, Kavisha Egodage 26*; Kelis Ndhlovu 1/30)
Match Result: UAE Women won by 9 wickets (with 22 balls remaining)
With this emphatic victory, UAE Women claimed the 2024 Namibia Women’s T20I Tri-Series title, capping off an impressive campaign.
