Tanzania vs Botswana – T20I Match Preview (2025 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final)

Date: September 26, 2025
Time: 12:50 GMT
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Zimbabwe
Tournament: ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final 2025

As the 2025 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final kicks off in Harare, the spotlight turns to a crucial opening match between Tanzania and Botswana. This high-stakes encounter sets the tone for the competition, with both teams eager to make their mark in the race for a coveted World Cup qualification spot.

Team Insights

Tanzania – The Emerging Threat

Tanzania has shown consistent progress in African cricket over the past few years. Their squad is a blend of experienced and emerging talent, with players like Ivan Selemani, Ally Kimote, and A. Rajeevan leading the charge. Their batting depth and spin-friendly conditions in Harare could work in their favor.

Tanzania's strength lies in their middle-order, with S. Selvaraj and K. Nassoro capable of accelerating the innings. Their bowling attack, featuring leg-spinner S. Mbaki and off-spinner D. Mehta, should provide control in the middle overs. However, their top order will need to hold up under pressure to post a competitive total.

Botswana – The Underdogs with Potential

Botswana may not have the highest rankings, but they come into this tournament with a determined squad and a clear strategy. The likes of V. Balakrishnan, R. Nehonde, and T. Perera offer a good mix of pace and spin. Their batsmen, though unproven at the highest level, have shown promise in bilateral series.

The key for Botswana will be to capitalize on any early wickets and build a competitive total. Their bowlers, particularly M. Kasselman and T. Tshose, will be tasked with containing the Tanzanian batsmen and picking up crucial wickets.

Pitch & Weather Outlook

The Harare Sports Club pitch is expected to be moderate, favoring spinners in the middle overs. With the weather generally pleasant during September in Zimbabwe, both teams can expect consistent playing conditions. However, dew could play a factor in the later stages of the match, especially during the chase.

Head-to-Head

Tanzania and Botswana have faced each other in a few T20I encounters, with Tanzania holding a slight edge in recent meetings. However, the Africa Regional Final is a fresh contest, and Botswana will be looking to upset the balance.

Player Watch

• Ivan Selemani (Tanzania): The all-rounder has been in excellent form with both bat and ball in recent matches.
• S. Mbaki (Tanzania): A key spinner who can turn the game in the middle overs.
• V. Balakrishnan (Botswana): A reliable all-rounder with the ability to impact both innings and the bowling.
• T. Perera (Botswana): A promising fast bowler who can trouble the top order with his pace and accuracy.

Prediction

Both teams are evenly matched, and this match could go either way. If Tanzania can post a 160+ total and maintain pressure in the field, they should be the favorites. However, if Botswana can exploit the spin and post a competitive score, they could pull off a surprise.

Prediction:
Tanzania by 5-6 runs
(Tanzania’s spin strength and experience could give them the edge on a Harare pitch.)

Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth analysis of this exciting match on the FanCode app (India only).