In the fourth encounter of the USA Women’s tour of Zimbabwe 2024/25, the USA Women achieved a convincing win by 4 wickets with 76 balls remaining. This victory kept their hopes alive in the series, although Zimbabwe Women maintain a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
After being invited to bat first, Zimbabwe Women posted a total of 179 runs in 48.4 overs. Opener Modester Mupachikwa provided stability to the innings, scoring a measured 34 runs from 59 deliveries, including five fours. However, following her wicket at 80 runs for 2, the team experienced a significant collapse in the middle order. Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano added a responsible 28 from 46 balls, yet no other batswoman made a notable contribution. Beloved Biza and captain Josephine Nkomo fell cheaply, while lower-order batter Audrey Mazvishaya managed to remain not out with a score of 26 to help Zimbabwe approach the 180 mark.
Leading the USA Women’s bowling attack was Geetika Kodali, who showcased an impressive performance, taking 5 wickets for 43 runs across her 10 overs. Kodali’s ability to consistently break partnerships at pivotal moments played a key role in limiting Zimbabwe’s scoring. Saanvi Immadi also stood out, recording 3 wickets for 28 runs, and Isani Vaghela bowled economically, taking 1 for 16 in her 6 overs.
In pursuit of 180, the USA started well, thanks to their opening pair of Disha Dhingra and Gargi Bhogle. Dhingra made a lively contribution of 41 runs off 46 balls, striking 8 boundaries, while Bhogle added a solid 36 runs from 57 balls. Together, they forged an 87-run partnership before Dhingra was dismissed by Audrey Mazvishaya.
Despite losing a few quick wickets, including Ella Claridge for a duck and the captain Aditiba Chudasama also for 0, Anika Kolan’s crucial knock of 43 from 59 balls steadied the innings. Kolan’s dismissal at 164 created some tension, but Sindhu Sriharsha, who remained not out on 30, steered the USA to a comfortable victory with assistance from Tara Norris. The USA concluded their innings at 182 for 6 in just 37.2 overs, easily surpassing the required target.
Josephine Nkomo was the standout bowler for Zimbabwe, taking 2 wickets for 32 runs in her 9 overs, with Olinder Chare also picking up 2 wickets. Unfortunately for Zimbabwe, their total was inadequate as the USA capitalized on their advantageous start and successfully chased down the target.
Geetika Kodali was rightfully named Player of the Match for her remarkable bowling effort, which was instrumental in the USA’s significant win. The series now stands at 2-1 in favor of Zimbabwe, with the USA aiming to level it in the upcoming match.
Image Source: Geetika Kodali @ Instagram
