ARINESHTO Vhezha produced a telling all-round performance to guide Takashinga 2 to a narrow 14-run victory over Alex Cricket Club in a National Premier League clash on Wednesday at Old Hararians Sports Club.

Defending a modest 206 all out in 44.4 overs, Takashinga 2 turned to their bowlers to deliver, and it was Vhezha who led the charge.

The all-rounder claimed three vital wickets, finishing his 8.2 over spell with figures of two maidens, 35 runs for three wickets. His victims included Aliakbar Hamid, Faraz Akram, who top-scored for Alex with a fighting 66 off 77 balls, and Nazim Patel. Each breakthrough tilted the momentum back towards Takashinga 2 at crucial moments.

Earlier, Takashinga 2’s batting had revolved around Marshall Takodza, who struck a composed 81 from 80 balls, made up of 10 fours and a six. Useful contributions came from Ryan Simbi with 27 and Tanyaradzwa Kagumba with 30, helping the side past the 200 mark.

Alex looked well placed in their chase through Akram’s aggressive batting, supported by Clive Madande with 39. But Vhezha’s sharp spells, backed by Wishnenzy Chapfombo’s three wickets for 30 runs, ensured Alex were bundled out for 192 in 41.2 overs.

Victor Nyauchi’s four for 41 for Alex had earlier kept Takashinga 2 in check, but Vhezha’s influence with the ball proved decisive.