Victoria Pearls’ dream of reaching the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier ended on Thursday after a five-wicket loss to Zimbabwe in the Africa Qualifier semi-final at the Namibia Cricket Ground.
Uganda batted first and scored 119/7 in 20 overs. It was a fighting total, but they found it hard to score freely as Zimbabwe’s bowlers kept things tight and stopped important partnerships from building.
Zimbabwe chased the runs with patience and control. They reached 120/5 in 17.4 overs. The turning point came from Nyasha Gwanzura, who scored a quick 17 runs from just six balls, hitting two big sixes. She was named Player of the Match for her efforts.
Even though Uganda lost, this tournament showed how much women’s cricket in Africa is growing. The Victoria Pearls played with heart and gave fans hope for the future, but they will need more consistency and stronger partnerships to match teams like Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe will now face hosts Namibia in the final. Both teams have already secured their spots in the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, where only four teams will qualify for the World Cup in England.
