Match Overview
Kenya and Zimbabwe played the 2nd Semi-Final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final 2025 on 2 October 2025 at the Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe. In this high-stakes encounter, Kenya won the toss and chose to bat first, setting the stage for an exciting clash against Zimbabwe.
Innings Summaries & Scorecard
Kenya Innings
Kenya managed to score 122 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. To begin with, the innings was anchored by Rakep Patel, who played a superb knock of 65 off 47 balls, including 8 fours and a six.
In addition, Sachin Gill chipped in with 19 runs from 21 deliveries. However, aside from these contributions, the batting lineup struggled. As a result, with wickets falling at regular intervals, Kenya failed to build a strong partnership in the latter stages, ultimately leaving them short of a commanding total.
Zimbabwe Chase & Victory
Zimbabwe successfully chased down the target, securing victory by 7 wickets. At one stage, they were comfortably placed at 110 for 3 in around 14 overs, maintaining a steady run rate of about 7.86 per over. Moreover, strong partnerships and a calm, composed approach in the middle overs ensured they stayed in control throughout the chase. Ultimately, they sealed the win with confidence.
Key Players & Match Turning Points
The key players and turning points of the match were crucial in deciding the outcome. Rakep Patel led Kenya’s innings with a top score of 65 runs off 47 balls, providing much-needed stability, while Sachin Gill contributed 19 runs. For Zimbabwe, the bowlers applied consistent pressure, taking regular wickets that prevented Kenya from posting a big total.
The turning moment came when Zimbabwe were 110 for 3, still needing a manageable number of runs; their batters remained composed and built steady partnerships, ensuring they maintained control of the chase and ultimately secured a comfortable 7-wicket victory.
Implications & What It Means
With this win, Zimbabwe strengthens its position in the race for a T20 World Cup spot from the Africa Regional Qualifiers, keeping their qualification hopes very much alive.
Kenya’s campaign comes to an end with this defeat, as their hopes rested on winning the semi-final, and despite putting up a decent fight, they ultimately fell short.
Namibia had already secured one qualification spot earlier, making this semi-final crucial in determining the second African team to advance to the T20 World Cup.