By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Bulawayo – Zimbabwe Women’s cricket team claimed a 35-run victory over United Arab Emirates (UAE) Women in the third one-day international (ODI) at Queens Sports Club on Tuesday, taking a 2-1 lead in the four-match series.
Zimbabwe batted first and posted 203 for 7 in 50 overs, with Loryn Phiri scoring 69 and Josephine Nkomo adding 52.
Modester Mupachikwa chipped in with 19, while Chiedza Dhururu was unbeaten on 17.
UAE’s bowling was led by Esha Oza (2/33), Indhuja Nandakumar (2/35) and Athige Silva (2/52).
In their chase, UAE Women finished on 168 for 8 in 50 overs.
Heena Hotchandani top-scored with 40, while Vaishnave Mahesh (18) and Nandakumar (16) resisted late on.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers sealed the win with Lindokuhle Mabhera taking 3 for 21, backed by Adel Zimunu (2/29) and Loreen Tshuma (1/13).
The series will conclude with the fourth and final ODI at Queens Sports Club on Thursday.