Rwanda secured a walkover win against Gambia, who failed to appear for their match. Meanwhile, Kenya defeated Mozambique decisively by 111 runs, and Zimbabwe claimed a 76-run victory over Seychelles. These matches are part of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B being held in Nairobi, with significant implications for the teams involved.
In a surprising turn of events, Rwanda achieved a walkover victory in their inaugural encounter against Gambia during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B held in Nairobi. The Gambian team failed to arrive for the match scheduled for October 19 at 9:30 AM, resulting in the umpires awarding full match points, amounting to two points, to Rwanda. Consequently, Rwanda will next face Seychelles at the Ruaraka Sports Club on Sunday. In another exciting match, the host nation, Kenya, triumphed over Mozambique, winning by 111 runs using the DLS method. Rakep Patel was the standout performer, scoring an impressive 120 runs off just 55 balls, playing a pivotal role in stabilizing the innings after two early wickets fell. He was well-supported by Sachin Bhudia and Dhiren Gondaria, who contributed 38 and 28 runs, respectively, leading to a formidable total of 224 runs. In the bowling department, captain Shem Ngoche shone with figures of 3-16 in four overs, restricting Mozambique to a mere 76 runs in a rain-affected 16 overs. This victory secured Kenya their first points in the tournament, placing them second in the standings behind Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe also demonstrated their prowess in the tournament, beginning their campaign with a commanding victory against Seychelles, winning by 76 runs using the DLS method. The Zimbabwean batsmen showcased their strength, amassing 286 runs for five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Brian Bennett was the star, smashing 91 runs off 35 balls, complemented by Tadiwanashe Marumani’s 86 runs off 37 deliveries. Seychelles struggled in response, losing two quick wickets and posting only 18 runs for the loss of two wickets when rain disrupted the play. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, spearheaded by Richard Ngarava with a brilliant 1 for 1 performance, maintained control of the match, culminating in a comfortable 76-run victory, which places Zimbabwe in a promising position as they advance in the tournament.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B is a crucial stage in determining which teams will progress to the next levels of international cricket competitions. In this instance, the matches are being held in Nairobi, providing an opportunity for various African teams to showcase their cricketing talents and compete for qualification. The significance of these matches is underscored by the unexpected turn of events, such as the Gambian team’s non-appearance, which grants Rwanda an easy entry to gaining points without having played the match. Additionally, the performances of the host nation Kenya and Zimbabwe highlight their strengths in batting and bowling, setting the tone for the tournament.
In summary, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B has ushered in surprising outcomes, chiefly marked by Rwanda’s unopposed victory over Gambia and Kenya’s formidable win against Mozambique. Zimbabwe also made a strong statement with their comprehensive victory over Seychelles. As the tournament progresses, each team must capitalize on their strengths while addressing any vulnerabilities revealed in their respective matches.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
