Lesotho Women registered their first victory of the Kalahari Women’s T20I Tournament 2026 with a dominant all-round performance against Zambia Women in the seventh match at Botswana Cricket Association Oval 1, Gaborone, on April 7.
After winning the toss, captain Maneo Nyabela opted to bowl first—a decision that proved decisive as Lesotho’s disciplined bowling unit restricted Zambia to a modest total.
Bowlers Set the Tone with Clinical Effort
Lesotho’s attack delivered a collective performance to keep Zambia under pressure throughout the innings. Boitumelo Tlali (2/4) and Boitumelo Phelenyane (2/12) led the charge, while skipper Nyabela contributed with figures of 1/7. Bonolo Mosoaboli also maintained control, helping ensure Zambia never built momentum.
Despite their control, Lesotho conceded 18 extras, which significantly boosted Zambia’s total to 56/6 in 20 overs.
With the bat, Zambia struggled to find rhythm. Mercy Nguni remained unbeaten on 12 off 44 balls, the only player to reach double figures. A 22-run stand for the fourth wicket between Nguni and Mwake Kachingo was the highest partnership of the innings.
Molapo Leads Composed Run Chase
Chasing a target of 54, Lesotho got off to a steady start through openers Kananelo Molapo and Paballo Pheko, who added 19 runs for the first wicket. Pheko was dismissed for 4, giving Zambia an early breakthrough.
Tshepang Khabo then fell in unusual fashion, dismissed hit-wicket without scoring, briefly offering Zambia a glimmer of hope.
However, Molapo remained composed at the crease. She anchored the chase with an unbeaten 29 off 27 balls, including two boundaries. She was well supported by Boitumelo Tlali, who contributed 9* off 7 balls.
The pair added an unbroken 28-run partnership for the third wicket, guiding Lesotho home comfortably with eight wickets in hand and 74 balls to spare.
Key Performers and Match Outcome
For Zambia, Mercy Nguni (1/7) and Mwake Kachingo (1/17) were the only wicket-takers, while captain Nancy Chabula delivered an economical spell without success.
Boitumelo Tlali was named Player of the Match for her impactful all-round performance, playing a key role with both ball and bat.
Conclusion
Lesotho’s comprehensive victory highlighted their bowling strength and composure in the chase, marking an important breakthrough in their campaign. With this win, they opened their account in the tournament, while Zambia will need to address their batting struggles moving forward.
