Rwanda was awarded a walkover win against Gambia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B due to Gambian team’s no-show. Kenya achieved a 111-run victory over Mozambique, led by Rakep Patel’s outstanding 120 runs, while Zimbabwe won against Seychelles by 76 runs, highlighted by Brian Bennett’s explosive 91 runs. Rwanda will next face Seychelles, with all teams seeking to establish a strong position in the tournament.
In the initial match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B held in Nairobi, Rwanda received a walkover victory against Gambia due to the latter’s failure to show up at the Gymkhana Club venue on time. The match was scheduled for Saturday, October 19, at 9:30 AM, and when the Gambian team did not arrive, the umpires awarded two points to Rwanda, marking a successful start in the tournament for Mahatlane Lawrence’s team. Rwanda’s next challenge awaits against Seychelles at the Ruaraka Sports Club on Sunday. Meanwhile, host nation Kenya commenced their campaign on a high note, defeating Mozambique by 111 runs using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. Rakep Patel excelled with a remarkable knock of 120 runs off just 55 deliveries, especially bolstering Kenya’s innings following a precarious start with two wickets down within the first three overs. Alongside notable contributions from Sachin Bhudia and Dhiren Gondaria, who added 38 and 28 runs respectively, Kenya set an impressive target of 224 runs. In response, Mozambique struggled at the crease, ultimately managing only 76 runs in a rain-shortened match, as Kenya’s captain Shem Ngoche led an effective bowling performance, taking three wickets for 16 runs. In another significant match, Zimbabwe commenced their campaign in the sub-regional qualifier with an authoritative 76-run victory over Seychelles, again employing the DLS method. Zimbabwe’s batting prowess was on full display as they posted an impressive score of 286 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted overs. Brian Bennett emerged as the standout performer, scoring an explosive 91 off 35 balls, with Tadiwanashe Marumani contributing a solid 86 runs from 37 deliveries. Seychelles faced early setbacks with their batting and could only muster 18 runs for two wickets before rain disrupted play. Following the rain, Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Richard Ngarava, maintained stringent control over the game, allowing Seychelles minimal scoring opportunities, leading to Zimbabwe securing their victory comfortably.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B is a crucial tournament that determines which teams may advance to the next stages of the T20 World Cup. This particular qualifier involves various African nations competing for supremacy in the T20 format of cricket. Rwanda, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Seychelles, and Gambia are participating teams, with all vying for points in a series of matches to enhance their chances of progressing further in the tournament. The unique DLS method is utilized in case of interruptions due to rain, adding a strategic element to the matches. This year’s tournament is being hosted in Nairobi, highlighting the growing significance and popularity of cricket in African nations.
In summary, the commencement of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B has produced notable outcomes, with Rwanda receiving a walkover win against Gambia, while Kenya and Zimbabwe showcased impressive performances against Mozambique and Seychelles, respectively. The early matches signal a competitive tournament ahead, as teams seek to establish themselves as champions of this qualifier and aim for progression to the World Cup events. Each team’s performance will be crucial in shaping their journey through the championship.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
