AS the Zimbabwe Senior Women’s Cricket Team prepare to take on the United States of America in a five-match One Day International (ODI) series at Harare Sports Club, all eyes will be on 15-year-old all-rounder Beloved Biza.
The bilateral engagement runs at Harare Sports Club from October 17-28.
Biza who is slowly becoming a mainstay at just 15 continues to get rewarded her phenomenal form with the Under 19 Women.
Just a few weeks ago, Biza was crowned the player of the tournament at the ICC U19 Women’s World Cup Africa Qualifier, where she exhibited her incredible talent with bat and ball.
The pint-sized Chitungwiza prodigy has been making headlines in Zimbabwean cricket circles for some time now. Her elevation to the senior team is a clear indication of her readiness for the responsibilities that come with international cricket.
With her impressive showing in the U19 Qualifier still fresh despite Zimbabwe failing to make it to Malaysia next year, Biza’s senior team inclusion is expected to be a boost to the team.
However, in the absence of captain Mary-Anne Musonda, who is recovering from injury, and teenage star Kelis Ndhlovu, who is sitting her Ordinary Level examinations, Biza’s inclusion brings a fresh perspective to the Zimbabwean squad.
The team still boasts a wealth of experience, with seasoned campaigners like Sharne Mayers, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Josephine Nkomo, and Modester Mupachikwa, who will no doubt provide guidance and support to the young players.
Biza’s rise to prominence is phenomenal considering her age and her cricketing maturity belies her youth.
Her ability to perform under pressure and her natural talent have drawn comparisons with some of the greats of the game.
The USA Women’s team, who will be looking to make the most of their tour to Zimbabwe, will be wary of Biza’s presence in the Zimbabwean lineup.
The Americans will be keen to exploit any weaknesses in the home team’s all-round performance, but Biza’s inclusion will add an extra layer of strength to the Zimbabwean lineup.
Joining Biza in the senior squad are her fellow Zimbabwe Under-19 stars, Runyararo Pasipanodya and Olinder Chare, while Tendai Makusha, a speed merchant from Bulawayo has received her maiden call-up. The inclusion of these young talents signifies a promising future for Zimbabwe women cricket.
ZIMBABWE WOMEN SQUAD FOR ODI SERIES VERSUS USA WOMEN:
Sharne Mayers, Modester Mupachikwa, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Beloved Biza, Christabel Chatonzwa, Josephine Nkomo, Runyararo Pasipanodya, Audrey Mazvishaya, Lindokuhle Mabhera, Nomvelo Sibanda, Olinder Chare, Ashley Ndiraya, Adel Zimunu, Loryn Phiri, Tendai Makusha
