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Raza blitz powers Zimbabwe to world’s highest T20I total

Zimbabwe – 344-4 in 20 overs (Sikandar Raza 133*, Tadiwanashe Marumani 62, Brian Bennett 50; Andreh Jarju 2/53, Arjusingh Rajpurohit 1/51, Bubacarr Kuyateh 1/57)

Gambia – 54 all out in 14.4 overs (Andreh Jarju 12*, Frank Campbell 7, Asim Ashraf 7; Brandon Mavuta 3/10, Richard Ngarava 3/13, Wessly Madhevere 2/7)

Zimbabwe won by 290 runs

Sikandar Raza’s brilliant innings of 133 not out was the highlight of Zimbabwe’s record score in T20 international cricket, made against the Gambia at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B in Nairobi on Wednesday.

The Zimbabwe total was 344 for four wickets in 20 overs, easily beating the previous record of 314 for three by Nepal against Mongolia in September last year.

Zimbabwe then bowled the Gambia out for 54 – 12 of which were wides – and their victory margin of 290 runs is another all-time T20I record, beating the 273 runs by Nepal over Mongolia.

Zimbabwe set a cracking pace right from the start of the match, with their opening batters Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani recording 98 for the first wicket in only 5.4 overs.

Marumani was then out for 62, scored off only 19 balls, with four sixes and nine fours, while Bennett made 50 off 26.

This brought in Raza to score Zimbabwe’s first-ever century in this form of cricket, 133 not out off only 43 balls – this included 15 sixes and seven fours.

With Ryan Burl making 25 off 11 balls and Clive Madande 53 not out off 17, Zimbabwe easily sailed past Nepal’s record.

The unbroken fifth-wicket partnership between Raza and Madande put on 141 runs off just 40 balls.

When the shell-shocked Gambian team replied, Richard Ngarava bowled out a batter in each of his first three overs.

Wessly Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta then whipped through the middle order, and the eighth wicket went down for 40.

The only batter to reach double figures was in effect the last man André Jarju – one man was absent injured – who scored 12.

Ngarava took three wickets for 13 runs, Mavuta three for 10 and Madhevere two for seven.

Zimbabwe’s final match at the qualifying tournament starts at 12.50 pm this Thursday against Kenya, who have also won all their matches to date.

Former Wallabies star Kyle Godwin Joins Zimbabwe Sables Ahead of International Tour

Former Wallabies star Kyle Godwin has arrived in Zimbabwe to join the National Senior Men’s Rugby team, the Sables, in preparation for their upcoming end-of-year tour to the United Arab Emirates and South Korea.

 

Godwin touched down at Robert Mugabe International Airport, where he was warmly welcomed by Sables management before heading straight to the training camp in Harare.

This marks Godwin’s first visit to Zimbabwe in over twenty-five years.

The accomplished center, who has made a name for himself as an international rugby player, is now eligible to represent Zimbabwe as the team aims to secure a spot in the next World Cup.

Known for his skills as an inside center, Godwin is poised to form a formidable partnership with fellow Sable and former Western Force teammate Ian Prior.

“I’ve been in touch with Ian Prior and he had a fantastic experience with the Sables in July,” Godwin shared. “I’m excited to be part of the positive energy surrounding Zimbabwe Rugby right now. I hope to contribute to our efforts in qualifying for the World Cup.”

“Zimbabwe has produced some incredible rugby talent, and I look forward to seeing our players compete on the world stage.”

Sifiso Made, Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union, confirmed Godwin’s eligibility to play for Zimbabwe following approval from the World Rugby Regulations Committee.

Kyle Godwin and Sables team manager Takunda Chifokoyo at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport

“Kyle Godwin has always been on our radar, and I’m delighted that the requirements for his birthright transfer from Australia have been met. His inclusion in the Sables is a significant boost to our campaign for World Cup qualification,” Made said.

Godwin was an Australian professional rugby union player who made his international debut for the Wallabies against France in 2016.

He currently plays for French club Lyon OU Rugby in the Top 14 competition and has previously represented the Western Force and Brumbies in Super Rugby, where he made his debut in 2012 against the Queensland Reds in Perth.

Over his career, he has played a total of 76 Super Rugby games.

Additionally, Godwin was part of the Australia under-20 team that competed in the 2012 IRB Junior World Championship in South Africa.

As the Sables gear up for their November tour, the addition of a player of Godwin’s caliber is sure to energize the squad and enhance their prospects on the international stage. 

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi & wife Rachel announce divorce

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and his wife, Rachel, on Tuesday announced they would be ending their marriage.

 

Kolisi married Rachel Smith in 2016.

They have two children together — a son Nicholas Siyamthanda (born 2015) and a daughter Keziah (born 2017).

The couple announced the end of their eight-year marriage on their various social media accounts, saying the decision to go their separate ways came after “much reflection and open conversations.”

“We have mutually decided to end our marriage. This decision comes from a place of love, respect and understanding that this is the best path forward for both of us.

“While our relationship as a couple is changing, we remain great friends and committed partners in raising our children with the same love and care they’ve always known.

“We will also continue working together on the Foundation that means so much to us.

“We are grateful for the love, understanding and support you’ve shown us and we kindly ask for your respect as we navigate this transition,” read their messages.

Kelvin Momo & Uncle Waffles to Headline NetOne 263 Culture Fest

Preparations are at an advanced stage for the second edition of the 263 Culture Festival, scheduled for 26 October 2024 at Belgravia Sports Club in Harare.

 

Headlining this year’s event are two of the biggest names in Amapiano: Uncle Waffles and Kelvin Momo.

Uncle Waffles, one of the most prominent Amapiano DJs globally, will bring her hits like “Tanzania” and “Waffles Anthem” to the stage. She made history as the first Amapiano artist to perform at Coachella in 2023, solidifying her international acclaim.

Kelvin Momo, famous for his unique “Private School Amapiano” sound, will also grace the event, set to treat fans to hits like “Funa,” “Ivy League,” and “Abantu.”

The lineup doesn’t stop there. South African artists Zee Nxumalo, Mthunzi, and Blxckie will also perform, adding to the event’s star power.

Former MTV Base and Channel O VJ Moozlie will return as MC for the second year running, having performed at last year’s festival.

Local talent will be well represented, with performances from Zimbabwean stars like Tammy Moyo, Voltz JT, King 98, Young Gemini, and Mr. Brown.

DJ sets will feature popular names such as Selekta Base, Chucknosis, Rax the DJ, Iroq, DJ Fujee, and MC Tatas.

 

Ticket Information

Tickets are on sale at all NetOne outlets in Harare, priced at $15 for university students, $20 for early bird tickets, $40 for standard tickets, and $150 for VIP access.

 

Event Expectations

Speaking to Zimbuzz, event spokesperson and communications manager Tapfuma Nzara shared his excitement: “People can expect a better event than last year. We’ve worked hard to improve production quality, from lighting and stage design to VIP amenities.

“NetOne coming on board as the title sponsor has given us the resources to take the event to the next level, and it also helps other corporates understand the importance of supporting the arts in Zimbabwe.”

Nzara added: “We’ve got Voltz JT, currently one of the biggest acts in Zimbabwe, and seasoned artist Tammy Moyo. Overall, we’re looking forward to an amazing event.”

P Diddy accused of raping girl, 13, as Five new Lawsuits filed against him

Five new federal civil lawsuits have been filed against Sean “Diddy” Combs over the weekend, bringing forth a fresh new wave of sexual assault and rape accusations against the producer between 2000 and 2022.

 

Among the plaintiffs, two are men and three are women. All of the alleged incidents reportedly occurred at parties hosted by Combs.

In one lawsuit, the Jane Doe claims that in 2000, when she was 13 years old, Combs invited her to attend his MTV Video Music Awards afterparty where she was allegedly drugged and raped.

She alleges that she accepted a drink at the party and became disoriented and dizzy. Soon after, she claims that Combs threw her toward another male celebrity, known in the filing as “Celebrity A”, who then removed her clothes as she grew more and more disoriented.

She then alleges that she was raped by the celebrity while Combs and a female celebrity, named in the suit as “Celebrity B”, watched.

The plaintiff also alleges that Combs raped her while the Celebrity A and Celebrity B watched and that he attempted to force her to do oral sex on him. Doe claims she resisted by hitting Combs in the neck, and he stopped.

In another suit, a 29-year-old independent music artist accused Combs of drugging her at a party, and then raping and sexually assaulting her.

In another filing, Combs is accused of sexually assaulting a man, identified as a businessman from the Los Angeles area, at a party.

Another separate filing, Combs and a “as of yet unnamed celebrity” are accused of drugging and repeatedly sexually assaulting a man, identified only as John Doe and described as a dedicated personal trainer who worked with celebrities, at one of his afterparties.

The five lawsuits were all filed in the southern district of New York by the Texas-based attorney Tony Buzbee.

Buzbee said in a statement to NBC News: “The allegations in the filed complaints speak for themselves,” and vowed to “work to see that justice is done”.

“We expect to be filing cases weekly naming Mr Combs and others as defendants as we continue to gather evidence and prepare the filings,” he added.

Buzbee also filed six other suits against Combs last week.

When asked for comment on the new allegations in the newly filed lawsuits against Combs, his representatives referred CNN to a previous statement from his attorneys in which they denied the allegations in six lawsuits filed last week.

“Mr Combs and his legal team have full confidence in the facts, their legal defenses, and the integrity of the judicial process,” Combs’s attorneys said in the statement to CNN.

“In court, the truth will prevail: that Mr Combs has never sexually assaulted anyone – adult or minor, man or woman.”

CNN also reported that two more lawsuits against Combs had been filed on Monday in New York superior court.

Combs is being held at the Metropolitan detention center in Brooklyn as he awaits trial. He was denied bail as he faces federal charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. His trial is set to begin in May.

Godknows Murwira Relieved of Captaincy at Caps United

CAPS United coach Lloyd Chitembwe has stripped Godknows Murwira of the captaincy at the Harare giants.

 

This decision follows Murwira’s absence from the Harare derby against Dynamos two weeks ago, as he opted to join the national team camp for the recently concluded back-to-back Group J AFCON qualifier matches against Namibia.

Both Godknows Murwira and Dynamos’ Emmanuel Jalai missed the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Sunday derby, which CAPS United ultimately won. However, Dynamos goalkeeper Martin Mapisa, who was also called up, managed to take the field.

The FIFA international break was only starting on the 7th of October.

This situation frustrated Chitembwe, who felt disrespected and referred to Warriors head coach Michael Nees as ‘a clown.’

“The major talking point for me today was the unavailability of Godknows Murwira. I’m extremely disappointed with what happened,” said Chitembwe shortly after the Harare derby. “He is our key player. He is our captain, and we need him in crucial matches. This game was very important for us.”

“If some clown somewhere thinks he can make decisions on behalf of the team I coach, that’s very unfortunate. It appears we are 40 or 50 years behind and have been colonized, in football terms. If someone believes they have a monopoly on ideas, then it’s unfortunate,” he added.

Chitembwe has now taken further action by removing Murwira from the leadership structures at Makepekepe.

The club’s top goalscorer, William Manondo, has been appointed as the new captain.

In explaining the reasons for this decision, Chitembwe adopted a more diplomatic tone, stating that the move was intended to relieve Murwira of some responsibilities.

“We appreciate what he (Murwira) did during his tenure and now the responsibility lies with William (Manondo),” said Chitembwe.

“I’m pleased with what Goddy (Murwira) accomplished during his time, and we are satisfied with the way he executed his duties.

“It’s something we discussed between him and myself. He is one player I really want to protect, and one of the reasons to protect him is to ensure he can focus on playing, because he is a player we need so much, so desperately,” Chitembwe concluded.

Meanwhile, in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matchday 30, Simba Bhora’s unbeaten run ended on Saturday after they lost to Herentals.

The result saw Simba’s lead at the top reduced to six points after FC Platinum crashed Yadah 3-0.

Castle Lager Premiership Matchday 30 Results:

Herentals 1-0 Simba Bhora

FC Platinum 3-0 Yadah

Ngezi Platinum 1-2 Chegutu Pirates

Chicken Inn 0-1 TelOne

ZPC Kariba 0-0 Hwange

Bikita Minerals 1-2 Greenfuel

Arenel Movers 1-2 Dynamos

Manica Diamonds 1-0 Highlanders

CAPS United 2-2 Bulawayo Chiefs

Featured image: by Libertino

CIMAS hosts Healthathon: A Platform for Zimbabwean Innovators to Shape Tomorrow’s Healthcare

Cimas Health Group is set to host ‘The CIMAS Healthathon 2.0’ a competition that represents a pivotal opportunity for Zimbabwe to harness the creativity and ingenuity of local innovators in addressing the unique challenges faced by the healthcare system.

 

The competition’s registration opened on the 14th of October and closes on the 24th of October.

“The hacking will be from October 27 to the grand finale scheduled for November 1, 2024, at Harare Institute of Technology in the capital,” explained Foster Akaketwa, Chief Information Officer at Cimas Health Group.

“The participants will have an opportunity to present their projects to a panel of industry experts and thought leaders, with the most promising ideas being recognised and rewarded.”

CIMAS has added some exciting prizes to the winners as well, with the competition’s ultimate winner pocketing US$1,500, while the second and third winners will walk away US$1,000 and US$750 richer, respectively.

The fourth and fifth winners will pocket US$500 and US$400.

The Healthathon 2.0, event will be held under the theme “Transforming Healthcare: Pioneering Tomorrow’s Health Solutions.”

The anticipated outcomes of the Healthathon 2.0 extend beyond individual innovations; they promise to catalyze systemic change within the healthcare sector.

“As the leading private medical aid society and healthcare service provider offering comprehensive medical aid solutions, laboratory services, primary healthcare, and international travel insurance we are happy to host this year’s edition of the Healthathon 2.0, an event aimed at driving innovation in healthcare,” said Cimas Health Group CEO Mr Vuli Ndlovu as he addressed the media.

He also added that by bringing together students, professionals, and innovators who are directly impacted by these issues, the event encourages the development of practical solutions that are both relatable and applicable to the local context.

This grassroots approach ensures that the innovations produced are not only tailored to the specific needs of the Zimbabwean population but also foster a sense of ownership and empowerment among participants.

“Cimas Health Group is dedicated to improving healthcare quality through technology and collaboration. As a leader in the healthcare industry, we are committed to fostering innovation that can enhance the quality of care and make healthcare more accessible and efficient,” said Mr Ndlovu.

Featured image: From left: Mrs Tatenda Madzikanda (Cimas Health Group Chief Marketing Officer), Mr Foster Akaketwa (Cimas Health Group Chief Information Officer) and Cimas Health Group CEO Mr Vuli Ndlovu

Teen sensation stars as Zimbabwe Women defeat USA Women

In a remarkable display of talent, 15-year-old Beloved Biza made a sensational debut at senior level as she inspired Zimbabwe Women to a five-wicket victory over the United States of America Women in the opening encounter of their five-match one-day international series at Harare Sports Club on Thursday.

The starlet first claimed three wickets before hitting the match’s highest score of 38 to complete a brilliant all-round performance.

After being put in to bat first, the USA Women were bundled out 152 in 43.5 overs, with Anika Kolan and Tara Norris contributing 37 and 31 to the innings respectively.

Biza was the best of the Zimbabwe Women bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of three wickets for 22 runs off eight overs, while Josephine Nkomo claimed as many scalps, at a cost of 29 runs off 6.5 overs.

There were also two wickets apiece for Christabel Chatonzwa and Audrey Mazvishaya.

In the process, Mupachikwa broke the Zimbabwe record for the most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in a women’s match, taking four catches.

The hosts started their chase on the backfoot as Sharne Mayers was sent back to the pavilion without scoring, trapped lbw off the very first delivery she faced, from Norris.

With a second wicket partnership between Modester Mupachikwa and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano beginning to blossom, Norris struck again, bowling out Mupachikwa at 32 in the fifth over.

She had struck three boundaries before her dismissal for 16 off 12 balls.

Mugeri-Tiripano’s 29, with six fours, helped take Zimbabwe Women to 56 for three in the 10th over, leaving them requiring 97 runs from 242 balls at about 2.4 runs an over.

A 40-run stand between Biza and Ashley Ndiraya boosted the chase, before the latter departed for 11.

When Biza was caught at the wicket for an impressive 38, with five fours, Zimbabwe Women now needed 40 runs from 149 balls.

Another debutant, Runyararo Pasipanodya, then came in to join Nkomo and victory was achieved without further loss, with 15.3 overs to spare.

Nkomo completed the job with an unbeaten 33, including six fours, off 45 balls, while Pasipanodya stood firm in a supporting role, contributing five not out.

The second match between the two sides is scheduled for Sunday at the same venue.

USA Women – 152 all out in 43.5 overs (Anika Kolan 37, Tara Norris 31, Disha Dhingra 23; Beloved Biza 3/22, Josephine Nkomo 3/29, Christabel Chatonzwa 2/21)

Zimbabwe Women – 154-5 in 34.3 overs (Beloved Biza 38, Josephine Nkomo 33*, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano 29; Tara Norris 2/20, Isani Vaghela 2/36, Aditiba Chudasama 1/31)

Zimbabwe Women won by five wickets

Reggae Legend Burning Spear Touches Down in Harare for One People Africa Tour

The legendary Jamaican reggae performer and multi-Grammy Award winner Burning Spear has touched down in Zimbabwe for the Harare leg of his highly anticipated One People Africa Tour.

 

He arrived at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport at 16:30 CAT, accompanied by his band, Black Spear.

The arrival was met with an enthusiastic welcome from scores of fans, media personnel, and members of the Rastafarian community who gathered at the airport hours ahead of his arrival.

Born Winston Rodney, Burning Spear is not only a musical icon but also a cultural ambassador of reggae music.

He emerged during the 1960s, a time when reggae began its rise as a powerful voice for social justice and unity. His music, characterised by its deep spiritual themes and rich historical narratives, has had a profound impact on generations, inspiring artists and fans alike.

Burning Spear at the Robert Mugabe International Airport – Picture: Wonder Mashura

Songs like “Marcus Garvey” and “Slavery Days” echo the struggles and aspirations of the African diaspora, making him a relevant figure in discussions about identity and heritage.

Burning Spear’s choice to perform in Zimbabwe is particularly significant. The country has a rich history of embracing reggae music as a form of resistance and expression.

His concert at the Glamis Arena on Friday, October 18, celebrates both his legacy and the shared experiences of African communities.

The concert will feature a vibrant lineup of local supporting acts, including Feli Nandi, Transit Crew, and Cello Culture, along with various emcees and DJs.

Norton Community Investigates Match-Fixing Allegations After 7-0 Defeat to Scottland

Norton Community FC has announced the immediate suspension of five of its team members due to allegations of match-fixing.

 

The press release, issued on October 15, 2024, reveals that the suspensions are the result of an investigation after the team was beaten 7-0 by title-chasing Scottland FC.

The suspended members are Clemence Masunda (Coach), Willard Nguyowembwa (Coach), Brandon Bere (Goalkeeper), Tafadzwa Kuyerukana (Executive Member), and Patrick Nyamayaro (Executive Member).

The press release states that the suspensions will be reviewed and may be subject to further disciplinary action.

The club has pledged to provide support and resources to ensure compliance with its policies and rules, indicating a zero-tolerance approach to any form of misconduct.

In a statement, the club’s Chairman, Mr. Nyakungu, emphasised the importance of fairness, integrity, and respect, saying, “Norton Community FC prioritises fairness, integrity, and respect. We will continue to uphold our values and ensure a positive experience for all members, players, and stakeholders.”

With five games to go, Scottland FC are in a race with MWOS FC for the sole ticket into the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League from ZIFA’s Northern Region Division One.