INNOCENT Kaia’s imperious form continues to dazzle in the National Premier League (NPL), as Takashinga Patriots 1 outran Methane Lions in an entertaining encounter played at Old Hararians Sports Club on Saturday.

Kaia’s scintillating batting display fell just four runs shy of a remarkable third century in as many matches, scoring a masterful 96 off 85 balls, including 12 boundaries. The breathtaking knock maintained the opener’s stranglehold on the batter’s leaderboard, cementing his reputation as one of the most dominant forces in NPL.

Kaia’s phenomenal run has been nothing short of extraordinary, with successive centuries in the opening two matches – a sublime 102 against Queens Sports Club and a majestic 150 against Chiredzi Cricket Club. His terrorizing reign with the bat has left opponents reeling, and his form shows no signs of abating.

In the match against Methane Lions, Kaia was ably supported by his fellow opener Joylord Gumbie, who scored a commendable 65 off 77 deliveries. The pair’s explosive partnership laid the foundation for Takashinga Patriots 1’s seven-wicket win, as they chased down Methane Lions’ 226/7 with ease, finishing on 229/3 in 33.2 overs. Samuel Muyambo and Hamilton Masakadza were the epitome of coolness, finishing unbeaten on 30 and 16 runs respectively.

Earlier in the match, Methane Lions’ Huzefa Ali (64) and Richmond Mutumbami (61) scored crucial half-centuries to guide their team to a competitive 226/7 in 45 overs. However, Takashinga Patriots 1’s bowlers were up to the task, with Usher Garwe (2/26) leading the charge. Nigel Mupurura and Graeme Cremer also chipped in with two wickets each, restricting Methane Lions to a chaseable target.