TAKASHINGA 1 went down by nine wickets to a strong Rangers Cricket Club side in a Vigne HMCA First League fixture at Takashinga Cricket Club, Highfield, on Sunday, but there was plenty for the home team to build on. After losing the toss and being asked to bat first, Takashinga 1 showed grit against a disciplined Rangers attack. Samuel Muyambo led the way with 22 from 45 balls, anchoring the innings with patience. Spencer Magodo and Joylord Gumbie both contributed 18, showing composure under pressure, while Shoun Handirisi’s 10 came before he was forced to retire hurt. The side posted 130 for nine from 34.5 overs on a pitch that had early movement for the seamers. With the ball, Munashe Chipara struck to claim one for 19 and the young bowling unit kept fighting until the end. Rangers’ David Johnson and Alexi Taylor played well to chase down the target in 16.4 overs, but the experience will serve Takashinga’s players well. Coach and management will take encouragement from the fight shown by Muyambo, Magodo and Gumbie, and from the lessons learned against quality opposition. With Handirisi set to return and more game time ahead, Takashinga 1 are focused on turning these lessons into results in the next round.