The Capricorn Women's Tri-Series 2022 tournament, being held in Namibia, witnessed a one-of-a-kind match after the host nation were bundled out for a mere 41 runs in 17 overs courtesy of some brilliant bowling by the Zimbabwe women.
Leading their attack was 24-year-old Josephine Nkomo, who picked up four wickets for just seven runs. She picked up three wickets in the 17th over as the Namibians were dismissed for just 41 runs. Nkomo also scalped the first and last wickets for her team as they ensured that their opponents were unable to get into the match.
None of the Namibian women touched double digits. Two of their players, Jurriene Diergaardt and Edelle van Zyl scored nine runs, which was the highest among any of their teammates. Four of their players were dismissed for ducks as well.
Chasing such a low total was an easy task for Zimbabwe, who needed just three batters to wrap up the game in an hour and a half. Kelis Ndlovu was dismissed LBW by Victoria Hamunyela for just 11 runs, but her opening partner Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano scored an unbeaten 28 runs off 20 balls, with four fours and a six to her name, leading Zimbabwe to a nine-wicket victory, their third consecutive win of the tournament.
Skipper Mary-Anne Musonda also helped in the run chase with an unbeaten five runs in three balls.
Ironically, Zimbabwe suffered a seven-wicket loss against the same opponents in the first match of the tournament. On that occasion, Jurriene Diergaardt hit an unbeaten 60-ball 62 as Namibia chased down a total of 130 in 19.4 overs.
However, since then, they have beaten Uganda twice, first by eight runs, and then by 22 runs, before their match against Namibia. Zimbabwe are also currently on top of the standings with six points in four matches.
