Story by Anashe Murombedzi
THE Lady Chevrons are on a mission to rewrite their narrative in the 2025-2029 ICC Women’s Championship, a crucial qualification pathway to the 2029 Women’s Cricket World Cup.
After a challenging start to their debut campaign, the team is eager to bounce back from a string of losses and make their mark in the tournament.
As the Lady Chevrons regroup and refocus ahead of the final ODI clash against New Zealand this Wednesday, the team is determined to put recent setbacks behind them and capitalise on the opportunities that lie ahead.
Zimbabwe’s inclusion in the prestigious tournament has expanded the competition to 11 teams, giving the Lady Chevrons a valuable opportunity to test themselves against the world’s top cricketing nations.
The team’s recent performances have been a mix of challenges and promise, with several players showing glimpses of brilliance despite difficult results.
However, the Lady Chevrons began their debut campaign in the Women’s Championship with heartbreak after suffering a 180-run defeat to New Zealand, who are ranked fifth in the world.
The series has so far seen Zimbabwe fall 2-0 behind following an eight-wicket defeat in the second ODI at the weekend.
These results add to the team’s recent struggles, which include back-to-back losses in the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier against Papua New Guinea, Ireland, Netherlands, Thailand, Scotland and Nepal, before also losing the T20I series against New Zealand 3-0.
Despite the setbacks, there have been positive takeaways from players such as Kellis Ndhlovu, who scored a gritty half-century against New Zealand, reliable opener Modester Mupachikwa, veteran bowler Josephine Nkomo and promising youngster Beloved Biza.
The Lady Chevrons’ challenge has largely been consistency, particularly with the bat. The top order has struggled to bat deep into the innings, often losing wickets early and placing pressure on the middle order.
With plenty of matches still to play in the championship cycle, the Lady Chevrons will be hoping to regroup, build momentum and strengthen their case for qualification to the 2029 Women’s Cricket World Cup.
