THE Lady Chevrons fell to heavy defeats in their opening two One-Day Internationals against Pakistan, but technical director Steve Mangongo pointed to Beloved Biza and a reshaped top order as evidence of a developmental pathway taking shape.
Zimbabwe lost the first ODI by 168 runs in Karachi, bowled out for 162 in 36.4 overs chasing Pakistan’s 330/5. They were dismissed for 137 in 39 overs in the second match, losing by 206 runs after Pakistan posted 343/4. Pakistan lead the three-match series 2-0 with one game remaining.
The defeats mask progress from a young batting group exposed to top-tier opposition. Biza top-scored in the first match with 53 off 53 balls, striking eight boundaries.
“She batted well without being troubled at all. However, she needs to keep learning to construct big innings as she can take the game away from the opposition at international levels,” Mangongo told NewsDay Sport.
He added that the new top order showed intent early in the first ODI, reaching 52/2 after the power play. Kelly Ndiraya struck several convincing shots at number three in a 30-run stand with Kelis Ndhlovu, who made 31 before being run out. Runyararo Pasipanodya cut her first ball for four, though she did not build on the start.
“Apart from Biza, Kelly Ndiraya showed that she belongs at these levels in her brief partnership with Kelis of 30 odd, she played some convincing shots as a number three batter,” Mangongo said.
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“Runyararo Pasipanodya’s confidence excited me as she cracked the elivery for a boundary, unfortunately, she didn't last. Being at 52 for two after power play was a key takeaway that the new top order asserted themselves well.”
Biza added 29 in the second ODI as Ndhlovu made 32 and Pasipanodya finished 33 not out off 62 balls.
“Biza's stability is vital, as a younger batter, it instils confidence in the rest of the batting group that younger players can handle batting at international levels. It rubs good batting energies to rest of batting group,” Mangongo said.
Seamer Kudzai Chigora recovered from a 12-ball, nine-run opening over in the first ODI to finish with one for 30 in 10 overs, and took one for 39 in the second match.
“Strong comeback of fast bowler Kudzi Chigora after a butterfly full first over in which she conceded nine runs in three overs after a 12-ball extras first over. She bowled with good pace,” he said.
Precious Marange led with three for 39 in the opener, while captain Nomvelo Sibanda picked up wickets in both games.
Mangongo stressed the need for rapid development.
“Desired international players are always on the go to keep improving. Players need to learn faster as opposition will figure them out on their game skill sets; they need to keep improving every outing.”
The third ODI is scheduled for tomorrow in Karachi.