Malawi Women secured a composed five-wicket victory over Zambia Women in a low-scoring encounter in the Kalahari Women’s T20I Tournament, with disciplined bowling and a steady chase proving decisive.
After being asked to bat, Zambia Women struggled to establish momentum as early breakthroughs put them under pressure. Nancy Chabula fell for 1 at 5 for 1 in 3.1 overs, followed immediately by Mwake Kachingo, reducing the side to 5 for 2.
The pressure continued through the powerplay, with Malawi’s bowlers maintaining tight lines. Filo Chenda and Rithika Sriram attempted to rebuild, but the partnership was cut short when Chenda was dismissed for 5 at 16 for 3 in 6.2 overs.
Sriram held firm with 10 off 34 balls but received little support as Mercy Nguni (6) and Vivian Mwansa (1) fell in quick succession. A late effort from Mwansa Chabula and Peggy Munsanda, both unbeaten on 9, helped Zambia reach 54 for 6 in their 20 overs, though the innings lacked momentum and boundaries.
Malawi bowlers dominate
Malawi’s bowling attack delivered a collective performance, led by Sugeni Kananji, who returned figures of 2 for 5 in 4 overs. Bridget Kasinja supported with 2 for 7, while Lucy Malino (1 for 7) and Praise Maziya (1 for 11) also contributed, ensuring Zambia never recovered.
Controlled chase despite early setbacks
Chasing 55, Malawi began cautiously but lost early wickets. Euless Chirailie was dismissed at 1 for 3, while Sophina Chinawa (3) and Kananji (1) fell soon after, leaving the side at 10 for 3 in 3.1 overs.
Zambia’s bowlers, led by Mercy Nguni (2 for 18), kept the contest alive with timely breakthroughs. However, Praise Maziya and Allinafe Alfonso steadied the innings with a crucial partnership.
Alfonso scored 8 before falling at 32 for 4 in 6.5 overs, while Maziya anchored the chase with an unbeaten 14 off 20 balls. Monica Ndipo added 8 runs, and despite a few late wickets, Malawi remained in control.
Caroleen Mangulama stayed unbeaten on 2 to guide the team home, as Malawi reached 55 for 5 in 10.2 overs, completing the chase with 58 balls to spare.
Zambia’s bowlers showed resistance, with Mwansa Chabula, Patience Chabuta, and Nancy Chabula each taking a wicket, but the modest target proved insufficient to defend.
Malawi’s disciplined bowling effort, combined with a measured chase, ensured a win, with Sugeni Kananji earning Player of the Match honours.
