The 12th match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifiers, played on 22 January 2026, saw Scotland Women produce a composed all-round performance to defeat Zimbabwe Women by five wickets. After winning the toss, Zimbabwe elected to bat first, hoping to put pressure on Scotland with a competitive total, but disciplined bowling and sharp fielding restricted them to 101 runs in 18.4 overs.
Zimbabwe’s innings never quite gained momentum despite a few fighting contributions. Captain Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano and Beloved Biza got starts at the top, but both were dismissed cheaply for 8 runs each, leaving Zimbabwe at 24 for 2 inside the powerplay. Kelis Ndhlovu and Loreen Tshuma also failed to build partnerships, as Scotland’s bowlers kept striking at regular intervals. The standout effort with the bat came from Modester Mupachikwa, who anchored the innings with a patient unbeaten 30 off 40 balls. She tried to hold the innings together as wickets kept falling around her.
Chiedza Dhururu provided some late resistance with a brisk 22 off 20 deliveries, briefly lifting Zimbabwe’s scoring rate. However, a cluster of dismissals in the middle and lower order ensured Zimbabwe never threatened to post a challenging total. Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 101, well short of what they would have hoped for on a good batting surface.
Scotland’s bowling attack was well led by Kathryn Bryce, who picked up two important wickets and applied pressure with tight lines. Rachel Slater and Abtaha Maqsood also claimed two wickets each, while Katherine Fraser bowled an economical spell. The collective effort ensured Zimbabwe were unable to recover after losing early wickets.
Chasing 102, Scotland Women started cautiously but lost Darcey Carter early. Katherine Fraser then played a crucial knock, scoring a fluent 44 off just 30 balls, striking seven fours and a six. Her innings gave Scotland control of the chase and ensured the required rate never became an issue. Captain Kathryn Bryce complemented her well with a quick 23 off 13 balls, showing intent and confidence at the crease.
Although Scotland lost a few wickets in quick succession, including Fraser to a run out, there was no panic in the dressing room. Megan McColl and Priyanaz Chatterji finished the job calmly, remaining unbeaten as Scotland reached 105 for 5 in 13.4 overs. The comfortable margin reflected their dominance, both with the ball and the bat. For Zimbabwe, Loreen Tshuma stood out with the ball, picking up three wickets, while Nyasha Gwanzura claimed one. However, the total proved too small to defend against a confident Scottish lineup.
With this victory, Scotland Women strengthened their position in the qualifiers, showcasing depth, discipline, and composure under pressure. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will look to regroup quickly and address their batting inconsistencies as the tournament progresses.
Loves all things female cricket