This Nigeria Women’s T20 Invitational matchup brings together two young and vibrant teams, U19 teams of South Africa and Zimbabwe. While South Africa has lost a game and won another, Zimbabwe have lost both their games so far and would be desperate to return to winning ways. The game is scheduled for March 24, 2026, 2:30 PM Indian Standard Time (IST), at Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval, Lagos.
Squads:
South Africa U19 Women’s Cricket Team
Ashley Barnard, Daneli Boshoff, Jezé Campher, Jae-Leigh Filander, Bruzaan Goosen, Miya Lalor, Siphokuhle Masilela, Ziya Mohanlall, Kananelo Mokoena, Shelfa Mukhari, Rethabile Nthoba, Mieke van Voorst, Ashleigh van Wyk, Chanel Venter, Cayleigh Wanckel
Zimbabwe U19 Women’s Cricket Team
Beloved Biza, Bethel Makanaka Zinyama, Buhlebenkosi Maposa, Christina Mutasa, Lorraine Pembiwa, Munenyasha Mandidzora, Naomi Mhlekwa, Nicolette Nyika, Nokutenda Makanhiwa, Ruvarashe Mpofu, Salem Museka, Sharmaine Manyukwi, Tadiwa Garutsa, Tawananyasha Zvomarima
Players to watch out:
Mieke van Voorst
Mieke van Voorst arrives in Nigeria in scorching form, fresh off a standout performance in the Youth T20 Tri-Series where she hammered an unbeaten 56 off just 32 balls. As one of the most exciting young talents in the South African setup, her aggressive strike rate and ability to clear the ropes make her the batter to watch this week. She has already shown she can dominate at this level, recently guiding her team to three consecutive wins with her clinical finishing.
Ashleigh van Wyk
Ashleigh van Wyk is a crafty slow left-arm orthodox bowler who has a knack for dismantling top orders, famously claiming 4/17 against Australia Under-19s last year. Her accuracy and flight make her particularly dangerous on the Lagos tracks, where spin typically plays a major role as the tournament progresses. Carrying a bowling average of 10.75, she is expected to be the primary weapon for the South African youngsters as they aim for the title.
Christine Mutasa
Christine Mutasa has emerged as a vital asset for the Zimbabwe Under-19 side, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure against seasoned international opponents. In her two appearances so far, she has contributed a total of 46 runs, including a standout counter-attacking knock of 41 against Rwanda where she cleared the ropes twice. Her aggressive approach is reflected in her healthy strike rate of 148.39, and her ability to contribute with the ball makes her a key all-rounder to watch as the tournament progresses.
Beloved Biza
As a talented top-order batter, Beloved Biza has provided steady starts for the Baby Chevrons in the opening stages of the competition. Across her two matches, she has accumulated 34 runs at an average of 17.00, often serving as the anchor while wickets fell around her. While her strike rate currently sits at exactly 100.00, her technical composure against the new ball and her occasional contributions in the bowling department highlight her potential as a future star for the senior national team.
Pitch:
The TBS Cricket Oval in Lagos features a modern ten-strip turf wicket that has replaced the old concrete surface, offering a more professional and consistent bounce. Early on, the pitch provides decent carry for seamers, but as the match progresses, it typically dries out to favor spinners who can exploit the natural wear and grip.
Weather:
The conditions in Lagos will be partly sunny with a high of 31°C and a low of 27°C. There is a 45% chance of rain during the day, accompanied by southwest winds at 11 mph.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Ashley Barnard, Miya Lalor, Kananelo Mokoena, Mieke van Voorst, Ashleigh van Wyk, Alice Ikuzwe, Fanny Utagushimaninde, Flora Irakoze, Rosine Irera,, Gisele Ishimwe, Henriette Ishimwe
Match Details:
Date – March 24, 2026
Time – 6:30 PM IST
Venue – Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval, Lagos
Broadcast – T.B.C.
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