TAKASHINGA Patriots 2 showed character as they defended 158 score to secure a hard-fought 13-run win over Alex Cricket Club in the Wednesday NPL T20 Blast fixture staged at Alex Sports Club on Wednesday.

After winning the toss and batting first, Takashinga 2 flew out of the blocks thanks to a blazing 37 from 14 balls by opener Cephas Zhuwao, who cleared the ropes four times and struck two boundaries in a whirlwind knock.

Captain Kudzai Maunze added a quick 27 from 16 balls, while wicketkeeper Alvin Chiradza chipped in with a valuable 23 off 19.

Middle-order stability came from Arineshto Vhezha (19 off 16) and an unbeaten 17 from 18 deliveries by Wishnenzy Chapfombo, helping Takashinga 2 to 158/9 in their 20 overs despite some sharp bowling from Alex.

For Alex, Captain Ahsan Aqil Ali led from the front with the ball and later with the bat. Ali dismissed Zhuwao and Ryan Kamwemba, finishing with two for 32, while Vincent Masekesa (2/21) and Faraz Akram (2/20) also bowled key spells to keep Takashinga from crossing 160.

Alex Cricket Club replied with a steady chase, anchored by Aqil Ali, who carried his bat for a superb 74 not out off 58 balls. He struck six fours and three sixes and kept his side in the hunt throughout.

However, he lacked enough support as wickets fell around him at regular intervals. The next-best contribution came from Aliakbar Hamid, who made a rapid 23 off 13 balls, but after his dismissal in the eighth over, the momentum slipped. Even Takunda Manyama’s rapid 17 off seven deliveries could not swing the contest in his team’s favour

Takashinga’s 2 bowlers shared the pressure with composure. Arineshto Vhezha (2/37) and Tanyaradzwa Kagumba (2/29) struck in crucial moments, while Chapfombo (2/19) applied the brakes in the middle overs. Marshall Takodza (1/11) also chipped in with a vital wicket.
Their disciplined effort in the death overs restricted Alex to 145/ 9, sealing a spirited 13-run win.