WHEN Zimbabwe Women looked cornered at 86 for four in the semifinal against Uganda, it seemed their World Cup hopes might hang by a thread. But in the space of six breathtaking deliveries, Nyasha Gwanzura turned the contest on its head and Beloved Biza hammered the final nails as the Lady Chevrons stormed into the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier with a thrilling five wicket win in Windhoek on Thursday.
Uganda’s bowlers had worked themselves into a strong position, squeezing Zimbabwe’s middle order and leaving 32 runs still needed off the last four overs. Then came the game’s defining twist. Facing Sarah Akiteng, Gwanzura launched back to back sixes before Biza joined the assault with a six and two fours. By the time the dust settled, 28 runs had been plundered in a single over, transforming a tense chase into a victory march.
Gwanzura’s six ball 17 and Biza’s unbeaten 16 off five lit up the Namibia Cricket Ground, propelling Zimbabwe to 120 for five with 14 balls to spare. Earlier, Modester Mupachikwa with 25 and Kelis Ndhlovu with 18 had laid the foundation with a steady opening stand, but Uganda’s bowlers led by Janet Mbabazi with two for 17 kept chipping away until the dramatic finale.
Put in to bat first, Uganda posted 119 for seven. Mbabazi with 29 and Immaculate Nakisuuyi with 26 gave them hope, but Zimbabwe’s bowlers especially Gwanzura with two for 17 and Lindokuhle Mabhera with two for 30 kept them in check. Rita Musamali’s unbeaten 23 carried Uganda to a competitive total though it ultimately proved insufficient against Zimbabwe’s late fireworks.
For Zimbabwe, the win carries extra weight. Not only does it set up a final showdown against hosts Namibia on Saturday, it also books their ticket to the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Nepal.
