Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE delivered a clinical performance to defeat Namibia by 33 runs in the opening match of their three-game T20 series at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo this Monday.
Winning the toss, Namibia elected to field first, a decision that quickly backfired as Zimbabwe’s top order came out firing.
The Chevrons piled on a commanding 211 for 3 in 20 overs, led by an explosive knock from Brian Bennett, who smashed 94 runs off 51 balls, including eight fours and four sixes.
Bennett shared a brilliant 124-run opening stand with Tadiwanashe Marumani, who chipped in with a fluent 62 off 48 balls.
Cameos from Ryan Burl and Sikandar Raza added to the hosts’ imposing total.
Namibia’s chase started promisingly, but Zimbabwe’s bowlers held firm, restricting the visitors to 178 all out, securing a 33-run victory.
The win gives Zimbabwe a 1-0 lead in the series and injects confidence ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers.
The two teams will meet again this Tuesday for the second match of the series.
