TAKASHINGA Queens produced a polished all round performance to secure an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Gladiators Women in their 2026 National Premier League Women’s clash at Takashinga Cricket Club on Sunday.
After winning the toss and choosing to field, the Queens’ bowlers seized control from the outset, applying relentless pressure that never allowed the visitors to build meaningful partnerships.
Mitchel Mavunga struck twice inside the opening two overs to leave Gladiators reeling at 9+nine for two. She removed Nicole Nyamhuri before a sharp run out accounted for Nicolette Nyika, placing the hosts firmly on top.
Although Gladiators captain Runyararo Pasipanodya briefly counter-attacked with a brisk 12 from nine balls, her stay was cut short when she became Mavunga’s second victim.
The innings never recovered as Takashinga Queens continued to tighten their grip through disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
Francisca Chipare delivered the standout spell, finishing with outstanding figures of four for 13 from 6.1 overs. Her accuracy accounted for Christabel Chatonzwa, Makanaka Zinyama, Salem Museka and Mitchel Chivare as Gladiators lost wickets at regular intervals.
Precious Marange complemented Chipare, returning two for 13 from her eight overs while conceding just 1.62 runs per over. Her spell removed the experienced Beloved Biza and Nokutenda Matsika to further expose the Gladiators lower order.
Gladiators were eventually dismissed for just 77 in 27.1 overs, with only Pasipanodya reaching double figures comfortably alongside Christabel Chatonzwa’s 10. Extras contributed 14 runs, underlining the sustained pressure applied by the Takashinga attack.
Chasing a modest target of 78, Takashinga Queens made a positive start despite losing Betty Mangachena early after she was caught and bowled by Makanaka Zinyama.
Lorraine Pemhiwa then took the initiative with an aggressive 28 from only 20 deliveries, striking six boundaries to put the chase firmly on course before she was bowled by Salem Museka.
With the early work done, Adel Zimunu and Alice Marongwe calmly guided the Queens home. Zimunu remained unbeaten on 14 from 34 balls, while Marongwe finished undefeated on 22 from 35 deliveries, an innings containing three boundaries.
The pair shared an unbroken 41 run partnership for the third wicket as Takashinga Queens reached 78 for two in just 16 overs to complete another convincing victory.
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