As the cricketing world turns its gaze towards Rwanda for the 11th edition of the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament (3rd–14th June 2025), Zimbabwe is scripting an exciting new chapter in their journey. Zimbabwe Cricket has unveiled a vibrant 15-member High Performance Centre (HPC) squad that promises a compelling blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned expertise, ready to compete against eight other national sides.
The Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament, launched in 2014, commemorates the resilience and unity of Rwandans following the 1994 genocide. Over the years, it has evolved into a celebrated platform for elite competition and solidarity in African women’s cricket, attracting teams from across continents. This year’s edition will see Zimbabwe’s HPC team line up alongside Brazil, Cameroon, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and Uganda, making the event a true melting pot of global talent and aspiration.
Coach Stephen Mangongo, a stalwart in Zimbabwean cricket circles, has meticulously crafted a squad designed for both current competitiveness and future promise. The selection reflects ZC’s long-term vision to deepen its bench strength ahead of Zimbabwe Women’s ICC Women’s Championship debut later this year.
Zimbabwe Squad for the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament 2025:
Nomvelo Sibanda (C), Christabel Chatonzwa, Cathrine Chitombo, Chiedza Dhururu, Nyasha Gwanzura, Lindokuhle Mabhera, Nokutenda Makaniwa, Mitchel Mavunga, Salem Museka, Natasha Mthomba, Passionate Munorwei, Vimbai Mutingwindu, Kelly Ndiraya, Loryn Phiri, Loreen Tshuma
The squad features several rising stars who have already begun to make waves domestically and internationally.
Players to Watch Out For:
Kelly Ndiraya:
The dynamic all-rounder whose versatility could be key in tight contests.
Natasha Mthomba:
An elegant batter with a knack for anchoring innings under pressure.
Vimbai Mutingwindu:
The promising off-spinner is known for her guile and control in the middle overs.
Lindokuhle Mabhera:
A sharp wicketkeeper whose athleticism and game awareness stand out behind the stumps.
The skipper Nomvelo Sibanda is a seasoned campaigner whose leadership and left-arm seam have been indispensable. Her experience will come in handy to inspire the youthful core.
Coach Mangongo’s intensive high-performance camps in Bulawayo have focused sharply on physical conditioning and honing match temperament. The Kwibuka T20 Tournament is seen not just as a competition, but as a crucible for grooming leaders and match-winners for future global assignments.
Last year, a youthful Zimbabwe ‘A’ side impressed the continent by finishing runners-up, a result that has fueled ambition and belief within the camp this season. With a beefed-up squad and robust backing from ZC, expectations are high for the HPC team to make a deep run and perhaps claim the title.
Zimbabwe’s commitment to women’s cricket is palpable, with the Kwibuka campaign a key stop in their quest for global recognition. With a dynamic squad balancing potential and pedigree, expect exciting performances, new heroes, and cherished memories as the 2025 Kwibuka Women’s T20 gets underway.
