Imbayago’s 85 leads Rainbow to five-wicket win.*
James scores 77; BAC sets 244 in 45 overs.
Chirwa’s 104 propels Rimuka to 35-run victory.
Mboyi, Mpofu’s 124-run stand falls short for Queens.
Imbayago’s Stellar Performance
Clive Imbayago once again demonstrated his batting prowess, leading Rainbow to a five-wicket victory over Bulawayo Athletic Club (BAC) in their NPL match at Kwekwe Sports Club on Sunday. His unbeaten innings of 85 runs off 56 balls, featuring 10 fours, was instrumental in securing the win.
BAC’s Innings: A Steady Start and a Strong Finish
BAC, batting first, faced early setbacks, losing two quick wickets. However, Sean Phiri’s resilient knock of 40 runs helped stabilize the innings. The real momentum shift came with Brandon James, who played an aggressive innings, scoring 77 runs off 66 balls. His partnership with Palvin Ndlovu, who remained unbeaten on 40, was crucial. Together, they added 110 runs for the sixth wicket, bringing BAC’s total to a respectable 244 for seven in 45 overs.
Rainbow’s Chase: Overcoming Early Wickets
Rainbow’s chase began shakily, losing their opening pair to Josh Mawire, with just 23 runs on the board. The game then turned in their favor when Larvet Masunda (46) and Clive Imbayago formed a formidable partnership. Their 102-run stand for the third wicket laid the foundation for the successful chase. Contributions from Kuda Munyede (35) and Victor Nyauchi (23 not out) ensured Rainbow reached the target comfortably, finishing at 246 for five in 40.1 overs, with nearly five overs to spare.
Chirwa’s Century Seals Victory for Rimuka Against Queens Sports Club
Chirwa’s Heroic Effort
Victor Chirwa’s brilliant century was the highlight of the match as Rimuka secured their first victory of the tournament, defeating Queens Sports Club by 35 runs at the latter’s home ground. Chirwa’s aggressive innings of 104 runs off 88 balls, including four sixes and six fours, was pivotal in setting a challenging target.
Rimuka’s Early Struggles and Recovery
Rimuka’s innings got off to a disastrous start, with Chris Mpofu’s early breakthroughs leaving them struggling at 32 for four after 12 overs. Chirwa, however, turned the tide with his dominant batting display. He found support from Nyasha Mayavo (41) and Carl Mumba (35), helping Rimuka post a competitive total of 238 all out in 41.5 overs. Mpofu was the standout bowler for Queens, taking four wickets for 41 runs.
Queens’ Chase: A Battle Against the Odds
Queens’ response was derailed early on, with Chirwa and Mumba reducing them to 12 for five wickets. Dalubuhle Mboyi (79 not out) and Chris Mpofu (66) then put up a valiant fight, forging a remarkable 124-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Despite their efforts, Queens fell short, managing only 203 for seven in 43 overs. Chirwa’s contribution with the ball, along with Mumba, was crucial in Rimuka’s historic win.
