By Anas Ahmed 
Bulawayo – September 15, 2025: Zimbabwe began their three-match T20I series in style, defeating Namibia by 33 runs in the opening encounter at the Queens Sports Club. A sensational knock from Brian Bennett (94 off 51), coupled with disciplined spells from Sikandar Raza and Blessing Muzarabani, ensured the hosts took a 1-0 lead.
Bennett and Marumani Build the Platform
Zimbabwe’s innings was anchored by Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani, who added a scintillating 124-run opening stand. Marumani struck 62 off 48 balls with six fours and two sixes, setting the tempo before departing in the 15th over.
Bennett, however, stole the spotlight. Mixing power with placement, he smashed eight fours and four sixes en route to a career-best 94, narrowly missing out on a maiden T20I century. His acceleration at the back end, including clean strikes against Ruben Trumpelmann, lifted Zimbabwe to a commanding 211 for 3.
Cameos from Ryan Burl (22 off 9) and skipper Sikandar Raza (23 off 11) added further gloss as Zimbabwe posted their second-highest T20I total on home soil.
Namibia’s Chase Falters
Namibia began brightly, racing to 61 in the Powerplay with Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton (38 off 24) and Jan Frylinck (21 off 13) showing intent. But the chase stuttered once Zimbabwe’s bowlers found rhythm.
Sikandar Raza (2/31) removed Frylinck and Gerhard Erasmus, halting Namibia’s momentum. Muzarabani (2/38) struck early and at the death, while Wellington Masakadza (1/23) tightened the middle overs. Despite Zane Green’s fighting 33 off 27 and Trumpelmann’s late 20 off 9, Namibia finished on 178 for 7, well short of the target.
Brief Scores
Zimbabwe 211/3 (20 overs): Brian Bennett 94 (51), Tadiwanashe Marumani 62 (48), Ryan Burl 22 (9); Alexander Busing-Volschenk 2/43, Trumpelmann 1/46
Namibia 178/7 (20 overs): Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton 38 (24), Zane Green 33 (27), Erasmus 26 (19); Muzarabani 2/38, Raza 2/31, Masakadza 1/23
Result: Zimbabwe won by 33 runs
Player of the Match: Brian Bennett (94 off 51)