ARINESHTO Vhezha produced a superb five-wicket haul, but it was not enough to save Takashinga Patriots 2 from a 53-run defeat against Rimuka Cricket Club in their NPL T20 Blast encounter at Kadoma Sports Club on Wednesday.

Vhezha bowled with fire and accuracy, returning figures of five for 34 to peg back Rimuka after a strong start. The left arm seamer struck in the opening overs, removing Takudzwanaishe Kaitano and Villan Changa, before returning in the middle stages to dismiss Victor Chirwa for 73 and then finishing with two more scalps at the death. Vhezha’s spell ensured Rimuka did not completely run away with the game, restricting them to 194 for seven.

Despite Vhezha’s brilliance with the ball, Rimuka were carried by the bats of Chirwa and Nyasha Mayavo. The pair shared a commanding stand, with Mayavo hammering 75 from 42 balls and Chirwa striking 73 from 49. Their power hitting laid the foundation for Rimuka’s imposing total.

In their chase, Takashinga 2 showed spirit but could not keep pace with the required rate. Tafadzwa Mahachi played steadily for 40 off 33, while Marshall Takodza added 32 from 23 to lift hopes in the middle overs. Cephas Zhuwao’s seven-ball 17 gave a bright start, but regular wickets stalled momentum. Once Mahachi fell, the chase lost shape, and Takashinga closed on 141 for nine.

Victor Chirwa followed up his half-century with four wickets, sealing Rimuka’s victory and capping a fine all-round performance.