THE high-octane atmosphere of the ICC T20 World Cup Africa qualifier remains palpable in Harare as a fully-charged Zimbabwe, fresh off a remarkable 170-run victory over Botswana, prepare to face Tanzania this morning in their final Group B clash.
Sunday’s dominant performance was headlined by a sensational, record-challenging century from veteran batsman Brendan Taylor, who proved his value to the Chevrons with a Man of the Match outing.
Taylor, a former national captain who returned to international cricket this year after nearly four years away, showcased his devastating hitting with 123 runs off just 54 balls — an innings that included 16 fours and five sixes before he retired out.
He brought up his century in a blistering 46 deliveries, falling just 11 runs short of Sikandar Raza’s national T20I record of an unbeaten 133.
The knock was a deeply personal one for the 39-year-old, who was visibly emotional after reaching the landmark.
“Out there, just the emotions that get the better of me,” Taylor shared, explaining his tears.
“Four years ago, I didn’t know where I was going in life.
“The struggles were enormous and you know the promises of recovery came true and in a man of faith, now I was just giving just a big thanks to God.”
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The resounding win over Botswana, coupled with their opening five-wicket victory against Uganda, ensures Zimbabwe maintain their 100% winning record and have already qualified for the semi-finals, which is the immediate step towards the main prize.
Despite securing a semi-final berth, the hosts will be all business against Tanzania at the Harare Sports Club this afternoon.
A victory is crucial to finish top of Group B and secure the best possible draw for the semi-final stage, likely helping them to avoid the strong Group A winners, who look to be Namibia.
Taylor emphasised the importance of the final group fixture as an opportunity for refinement before the knockout stage.
“The final group game there’s always so much you can take out of it.
“Obviously there’s maybe different combinations we can try, we’ve got match winners all the way down to number nine and we know what our goal is going to be,” he said.
“So it’s another game that we can really try and enhance our skill set and hopefully that bodes well for Tuesday and then come Thursday for the semi-final.”
On the prospect of facing Group A leaders Namibia, who are playing excellent cricket, Taylor remained confident, but respectful.
“Sure again, we speak about respecting opposition, fearing no one. So whatever is presented to us, we will make sure we’re prepared accordingly.
“But obviously Namibia are playing really good cricket and whatever comes we will be prepared.”
The stakes are enormous.
The two teams that successfully navigate the semi-finals to reach the final will automatically qualify for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
For Zimbabwe, the momentum is building, driven by the inspiring return of a true icon of the game.
