Namibia Women registered a thrilling 3-wicket victory over Zimbabwe Women in the 3rd match of the Namibia Women’s T20I Tri-Series 2024 at the Wanderers Cricket Ground in Windhoek. Namibia, led by an all-around performance from Sune Wittmann, chased down a target of 102 with 5 balls to spare, securing their second win of the series.
Winning the toss and electing to field first, Namibia restricted Zimbabwe to a modest total of 101/8 in 20 overs. Zimbabwe’s innings was anchored by Modester Mupachikwa, who scored a patient 39 off 55 balls, but lacked significant support from the rest of the batting lineup. Namibia’s bowlers dominated, with captain Sune Wittmann leading the charge, picking up 2/12 in 3 overs, while Jurriene Diergaardt contributed with 2/5 in her only over. Zimbabwe struggled to find momentum, as regular breakthroughs kept their run rate in check.
In reply, Namibia’s top order faltered early, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, Merczerly Gorases provided stability with her steady knock of 27 off 47 balls, while Sylvia Shihepo added a crucial unbeaten 23 off 14 balls to guide Namibia to the finish line. Despite a late wobble, Namibia reached 104/7 in 19.1 overs, securing a hard-fought victory.
Key Highlights & Records:
- Sune Wittmann was the standout performer for Namibia, taking 2 wickets for just 12 runs and also contributing 10 runs with the bat. Her disciplined bowling and captaincy proved pivotal in keeping Zimbabwe’s scoring under control.
- Merczerly Gorases held the Namibian innings together with her composed knock, while Sylvia Shihepo played a match-winning role in the lower order.
- Zimbabwe’s bowlers, particularly Beloved Biza, who took 2/9 in 1.1 overs, and Lindokuhle Mabhero with 1/14 in 4 overs, fought valiantly but couldn’t prevent Namibia from chasing down the target.
Brief Scores:
Zimbabwe Women: 101/8 in 20 overs (Modester Mupachikwa 39, Kelis Ndhlovu 16; Sune Wittmann 2/12, Jurriene Diergaardt 2/5)
Namibia Women: 104/7 in 19.1 overs (Merczerly Gorases 27, Sylvia Shihepo 23*; Beloved Biza 2/9, Lindokuhle Mabhero 1/14)
Result:
Namibia Women won by 3 wickets (with 5 balls remaining).
Player of the Match:
Sune Wittmann – 2/12 (3 overs) & 10 (17 balls)
This victory places Namibia in a strong position in the Tri-Series, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The series continues with both teams looking to fine-tune their strategies for the upcoming matches.
