HARARE – Rhinos secured their first Domestic T20 championship with a dominant 49-run victory over Eagles in the final at Harare Sports Club on Sunday. After finishing as runners-up in 2010/11 and 2022/23—both times losing to Eagles—Rhinos finally turned the tables on their rivals.

Batting first after winning the toss, Rhinos stumbled early, losing three wickets for just 25 runs within five overs. Antum Naqvi then rescued the innings with a quick-fire 50 off 32 balls, supported by Nyasha Mayavo (22) and Victor Chirwa (27). The late fireworks came from Tashinga Musekiwa, who blasted 33 off 13 balls to propel Rhinos to 174 for nine. Richard Ngarava starred with the ball for Eagles, taking 2/15 in four overs.

Eagles began their chase brightly but lost momentum as Rhinos’ bowlers tightened their grip. By the 10th over, they were struggling at 61 for four, with the required run rate soaring. Despite efforts from Craig Ervine (21) and Tony Munyonga (17), Eagles fell behind, needing 76 off the last 23 balls.

Brad Evans (2/16) and Antum Naqvi (2/19) led a disciplined bowling attack as Eagles limped to 125 for nine. With an all-round performance, Rhinos sealed a well-deserved championship victory.

Match Summary

Rhinos – 174-9 in 20 overs (Naqvi 50, Musekiwa 33, Chirwa 27; Ngarava 2/15, Maposa 2/42)
Eagles – 125-9 in 20 overs (Ervine 21, Madhevere 19, Munyonga 17; Evans 2/16, Naqvi 2/19, Macheke 2/28)
Rhinos won by 49 runs.