Gladiators Women dethrone Takashinga after Chapel Field defeat

TAKASHINGA Women’s grip on the Julia Chibhabha Women’s League is over. The defending champions slipped to a five-wicket loss against rivals Gladiators Women at Prince Edward School’s Chapel Field at the weekend, a result that hands the title initiative to the Chitungwiza side. Takashinga were bowled out for 76 in 27.4 overs after electing to bat. Vimbai Mutungwindu’s 23 and Anisha Dzingai’s 14 were the only double-digit contributions as Salem Museka tore through the order with five for 23 from seven overs. Passionate Munorwei backed her up with three for 15 in 4.4 overs. Gladiators made light work of the chase. Nicolette Nyika’s 27 off 28 set the tone before Kellis Ndlovu closed it out with an unbeaten 18 from eight balls, guiding them to 82 for five in 14.2 overs. The defeat leaves Takashinga stranded on 19 points from 14 matches, nine wins, four losses with no route back to the top. Gladiators climb to 21 points from 12 matches and require one more victory from their final two fixtures to claim the crown. For Takashinga, Saturday marked the end of a title reign that began last season. For Gladiators, it was a statement win over the team that took the trophy from them. Old Hararians Women are also on 19 points in third, with matches in hand. Robert Mugabe Women follow on 11. White Rhinos and Glenshire Cricket Club prop up the table on five apiece. The final round is set for this weekend. Takashinga Women Squad: Buhlebenkosi Maphosa (C), Alice Marongwe, Anisha Dzingai, Betty Mangachena, Charmaine Munyukwi, Francisca Chipare, Lorraine Pemhiwa, Mitchel Mavunga, Munenyasha Mandidzora, Tinaye Mapfumo, Vimbai Mutingwindu. Gladiators Women Runyararo Pasipanodya (C), Beloved Biza, Delight Chipongo, Kelis Ndhlovu, Makanaka Zinyama, Nicole Nyamhuri, Nicolette Nyika, Passionate Munorwei, Patience Bukuta, Salem Museka, Shalom Mailpula.