Zimbabwe’s emerging stars, Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani, once again laid a solid foundation for the Chevrons, guiding the team to a comfortable five-wicket victory over Namibia in the second Twenty20 International (T20I) at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Tuesday. The win gave Zimbabwe an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with one game still to play.
The young openers produced a composed yet aggressive display, setting the tone for Zimbabwe’s chase of a competitive target set by the visitors. Namibia, having won the toss and elected to bat, posted 169 for six in their 20 overs. The visitors’ innings was built around contributions from the top and middle order, but Zimbabwe’s bowlers ensured that the total remained within reach.
Pace spearhead Richard Ngarava and all-rounder Brad Evans each claimed two wickets, while spinner Tinotenda Mapisa and seasoned campaigner Sikander Raza chipped in with a wicket apiece. Their disciplined bowling and sharp fielding restricted Namibia from accelerating fully in the latter stages, keeping the Chevrons within striking distance.
Chasing 170 for victory, Zimbabwe’s openers wasted little time in taking control. Bennett and Marumani shared a 69-run partnership, blending caution with calculated aggression. Bennett led the charge early, striking a fluent 40 off just 20 deliveries, showcasing his ability to find gaps and punish loose deliveries. His aggressive approach laid the groundwork for Marumani to take over once Bennett was dismissed, and the young batsman responded emphatically.
Marumani’s innings was a mix of power and precision, as he produced a second consecutive fifty, dominating the Namibian attack with well-timed shots and fearless stroke play. His innings not only anchored the chase but also sent a clear message about Zimbabwe’s depth of talent at the top of the order.
While the openers set the stage, it was cameo contributions from Tony Munyonga and all-rounder Ryan Burl that brought Zimbabwe over the line. Their efforts ensured the team crossed the finish line with nearly two overs to spare, leaving the crowd at Queens Sports Club cheering a commanding victory.
The comprehensive win not only sealed the series but also provided Zimbabwe with momentum and confidence as they prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup qualifiers later this year. The performance of Bennett and Marumani underscores the team’s investment in nurturing young talent and building a competitive squad capable of challenging the top Associate and Full Member nations.
Speaking after the match, Zimbabwe coach reflected on the significance of the victory. “It’s encouraging to see our young openers rise to the occasion. Brian and Tadiwanashe showed maturity beyond their years, providing a solid platform for the team. Wins like this not only boost confidence but also give the squad valuable experience as we prepare for the T20 World Cup qualifiers,” he said.
For Namibia, the series loss is a setback, but it also highlights areas of improvement ahead of upcoming fixtures. Their bowlers struggled to contain the openers in the powerplay, and while the middle order contributed, the inability to finish strongly allowed Zimbabwe to dictate the terms of the chase. The visitors will be looking to bounce back in the final T20I, where pride and a series consolation win are at stake.
Bennett and Marumani Shine as Zimbabwe Seal T20 Series Against Namibia
The third and final T20I is scheduled for Thursday at the same venue, where Zimbabwe will aim for a clean sweep to cap off a dominant series performance. With the series already won, the Chevrons have the opportunity to fine-tune combinations, give exposure to emerging players, and solidify strategies ahead of their upcoming international commitments. Namibia, on the other hand, will be keen to salvage pride, working to address the gaps exposed in the first two matches.
Zimbabwe’s current form, marked by disciplined bowling, aggressive batting, and the emergence of young talent, paints an optimistic picture for the team’s future. The blend of experience from players like Sikander Raza and Ryan Burl with the fearless approach of Bennett and Marumani promises a competitive edge in the T20 format.
As fans eagerly await the final T20I, one thing is clear: Zimbabwe’s Chevrons are sending a strong statement to regional rivals and international observers alike. Their recent performances, particularly the clinical displays from their young openers, demonstrate that the team is not only building for the present but also investing in a pipeline of talent capable of carrying the nation forward in international cricket.
The Queens Sports Club is set to host the final clash under expectations of another thrilling encounter, as Zimbabwe seeks to cap off their series with a clean sweep and Namibia strives to avoid a whitewash. With confidence high and momentum firmly on their side, the Chevrons appear ready to continue their winning run, while cricket fans in Zimbabwe have much to celebrate.
Source- ZBC
