Namibia end Tanzania’s Cricket World Cup hopes
NAMIBIA: TANZANIA’S hopes of progressing to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup were dashed on Thursday after disappointing results against hosts Namibia at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek.
Tanzania, knowing a win would not only secure a place in the finals but also give them a coveted World Cup ticket, failed to rise to the occasion. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, the Tanzanian side managed just 75 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs, struggling against a disciplined Namibian bowling attack.
Tanzania’s innings never gained momentum. The early loss of opener Saum Mtae (4) and captain Fatuma Kibasu (0) in quick succession set the tone for a difficult outing. Hudaa Omary was the top scorer for Tanzania, crafting a patient 26 off 37 balls, while Neema Pius added a cautious 10 off 21.
Skipper and wicketkeeper Shufaa Mohamedi remained not out on 10, but a lack of significant partnerships and attacking intent left Tanzania well below par.
Namibia’s bowlers were clinical, with Jurriene Diergaardt impressing with figures of 2 for 9 in 4 overs, while Saima Tuhadeleni also took 2 wickets for 11 runs. Eveleen Kejarukua and Sune Wittmann chipped in with a wicket apiece as Namibia kept a tight grip on proceedings throughout.
In response, Namibia chased down the target with ease, reaching 77 for 2 in just 13.5 overs, sealing an eightwicket victory and eliminating Tanzania from the tournament. Despite losing both openers early Sune Wittmann for 6 and Yasmeen Khan for 1 the Namibians were steady and untroubled.
The chase was anchored by Mekelaye Mwatile, who played a fluent knock of 43 not out off 38 deliveries, including seven boundaries. She was well supported by Kayleen Green, who finished unbeaten on 25 off 33 balls, guiding Namibia safely over the line.
Tanzania’s bowlers found little joy, with Agnes Qwele and Perice Kamunya the only wicket-takers. Qwele returned figures of 1 for 10 in 3 overs, while Kamunya picked up 1 for 17 from her four. However, the bowling unit was unable to apply sustained pressure, and Namibia’s batters capitalised
