Eswatini vs Mozambique – T20I Match Preview – September 13, 2025

Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time: 05:00 PM IST / 08:30 AM GMT
Venue: Malkerns Country Club, Eswatini
Series: Mozambique tour of Eswatini 2025 – 5 T20I Series
Match: 3rd T20I

Match Overview

As the 3rd T20I of the 5-match series between Eswatini (SWA) and Mozambique (MOZ) approaches, the hosts are in a commanding position. Eswatini have already won the first two matches of the series by notable margins, and they look to extend their dominance on home soil.

The first match saw Eswatini chase down 129 with 8 wickets in hand, while in the second, they defended 165 to clinch a 5-run victory. With two wins under their belt, Eswatini will be eager to continue their winning momentum and potentially take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series.

Mozambique, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and turn the tide in their favor. A strong bowling and fielding performance could see them pull off an upset, but they will need to be more clinical with the bat if they are to challenge the hosts.

Team Form and Key Players

Eswatini (SWA)

Eswatini have been in impressive form, showcasing strong batting depth and a disciplined bowling attack. In the first match, they posted a competitive 160/8 and then defended 165/7 in the second. Their batters have shown composure under pressure, while the pacers have been effective in controlling the flow of runs.

Key Players to Watch:

• Batsmen: Sipho Nkosi (captain, aggressive opener), Thulani Mkhwanazi (middle-order anchor)
• Bowlers: Sibusiso Dlamini (fast-medium, economical), Thokozani Dube (left-arm seamer)
• All-rounders: Sifiso Mkhize (aggressive lower-order hitter with useful off-spin)

Mozambique (MOZ)

Mozambique have struggled with consistency in the series so far. Their batters have found it difficult to convert starts into big scores, and their bowlers have often leaked runs at crucial moments. However, they still have the talent to compete, and a change in approach could see them turn the series around.

Key Players to Watch:

• Batsmen: Tinashe Mupari (left-handed opener, good in the powerplay), Mário Mungu (middle-order with a solid technique)
• Bowlers: Eduardo Machava (left-arm spinner, effective in the middle overs), Nhamo Mavunga (fast bowler with good yorkers)
• All-rounders: Gilberto Nhongo (useful with both bat and ball, especially in death overs)

Head-to-Head

In the first two matches of the series:

• 1st T20I: Eswatini won by 31 runs
• 2nd T20I: Eswatini won by 5 runs

Eswatini have the psychological edge and are the favorites to continue their winning run.

Weather and Pitch Conditions

The pitch at Malkerns Country Club is expected to be flat and batting-friendly, with good carry and minimal assistance for spinners. The weather is likely to remain dry, with no threat of rain. However, the bowlers will look to exploit any marginal turn in the later stages.

Expected Playing Conditions:

• Pitch Type: Neutral to batting-friendly
• Weather: Sunny and dry
• Expected Overs for Powerplay: 17–19 overs (based on previous matches)

Probable Playing XIs

Eswatini (SWA)

1. Sipho Nkosi
2. Thulani Mkhwanazi
3. Thokozani Dube
4. Tendai Dube
5. Sibusiso Dlamini
6. Sifiso Mkhize
7. Siyabonga Mgaba
8. Thulani Mkhize
9. Sipho Nkosi (wk)
10. Thokozani Dube (c)
11. Sifiso Mkhize

Mozambique (MOZ)

1. Tinashe Mupari
2. Mário Mungu
3. Eduardo Machava
4. Gilberto Nhongo
5. Nhamo Mavunga
6. Carlos Mungu
7. Eduardo Machava (wk)
8. Gilberto Nhongo (c)
9. Nhamo Mavunga
10. Carlos Mungu
11. Eduardo Machava

Match Prediction

Eswatini have been in excellent form and are the stronger side on this tour. With a favorable pitch and a confident squad, they are expected to win the third T20I as well. However, if Mozambique can bowl tight and capitalize on early wickets, they can make the game interesting.

Prediction:
Eswatini to win by 8-10 runs

Fantasy Tips

• Captain (C): Sipho Nkosi (Eswatini)
• Vice-Captain (VC): Sifiso Mkhize (Eswatini)
• Wicket-keeper (WK): Sipho Nkosi (Eswatini)
• All-rounder (AR): Sifiso Mkhize (Eswatini)
• Batsman (B): Thulani Mkhwanazi (Eswatini)
• Bowler (B): Sibusiso Dlamini (Eswatini)

Conclusion

Eswatini are in a strong position and are favored to continue their dominance. With a home crowd behind them and a track that suits their game, they are well-placed to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series. Mozambique, however, will need to raise their game significantly if they are to make a comeback in the remaining matches.

Stay tuned for live updates and highlights of this exciting T20I!
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