Story by Anashe Murombedzi
THE stage is set for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Africa Qualifier which kicks off this Friday, beginning with warm-up matches providing a glimpse into the teams’ preparations.
Zimbabwe dominated Kenya, winning by 9 wickets, after restricting them to 96/8 in 20 overs.
Zimbabwe chased down the target in just 12.2 overs, losing only one wicket.
In another match, Botswana emerged victorious against Malawi, winning by 55 runs. They scored 150/4 in 20 overs, while Malawi could only manage 95/10 in 19.3 overs.
Namibia showcased their batting prowess, scoring 205/6 in 20 overs, and then bowled out Uganda for 112/8 in 20 overs, winning by 93 runs.
Tanzania secured a nail-biting win against Nigeria, winning by a wicket.
Nigeria were bowled out for 83 in 17.4 overs, while Tanzania chased down the target in 19.2 overs, losing 9 wickets.
The Africa Qualifier will feature eight teams, drawn in two groups.
Group A consists of Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, and Nigeria, while Group B comprises Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe.
The top two finishers will earn a place in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held in India and Sri Lanka.
The tournament will run from September 26 to October 4.
Meanwhile, the first day of the tournament will see Namibia taking on Kenya at Harare Sports Club, while Nigeria meets Malawi at Takashinga.
In the afternoon, hosts Zimbabwe will open their campaign against Uganda at Harare Sports Club, while Tanzania clash with Botswana at Takashinga.
