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Zimbabwe Women Seize 2-1 Series Lead with Commanding Win Over UAE

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A composed and disciplined team effort saw the Zimbabwe Women’s cricket team claim a vital 33-run victory over the United Arab Emirates in the third ODI, taking a 2-1 lead in the four-match series at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Zimbabwe set a solid foundation with a total of 203 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a gritty 69 off 94 balls from Loryn Phiri, who kept the scoreboard ticking under pressure.

She was well supported by vice-captain Josephine Nkomo, whose 52 off 76 deliveries added crucial stability to the innings. Their composed half-centuries provided the backbone of Zimbabwe’s innings, ensuring the team posted a defendable total despite tight bowling from the visitors.

UAE’s bowlers, led by skipper Esha Oza (2/29), Induna Nandakumar (2/35), and Thilini Shashikala (2/52), worked hard to contain the run rate, taking wickets at regular intervals to prevent Zimbabwe from running away with the game.

In response, the UAE never quite found their footing. The Zimbabwean bowling unit, spearheaded by spinner Lindokuhle Mabhero, applied the brakes early and never let up. Mabhero was outstanding, finishing with figures of 3 for 21 from her full quota of 10 overs, choking the life out of the visitors’ middle order.

She was ably assisted by Adel Zimunu, who chipped in with 2 for 29, as Zimbabwe kept the pressure on throughout the innings.

Heena Hotchandani offered some resistance with a determined 40, but the UAE’s chase was marred by a steady fall of wickets and a mounting required run rate. Despite battling through the 50 overs, the visitors could only muster 170 for 8, falling short by 33 runs.

This result marks a strong comeback for the Lady Chevrons, who now take a crucial lead into the final match of the series. With the momentum firmly in their corner, Zimbabwe will look to close out the series in style — while the UAE will be aiming to bounce back and draw level in what promises to be an exciting series finale.

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