The Men’s National Cricket Team has recorded back-to-back victories in Harrismith, South Africa, as preparations intensify for the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Qualifier C in Abuja, Nigeria, later next month.
Lesotho completed a successful weekend of preparatory cricket by defeating HPPCC 2nd Pluckers XI by 64 runs on Sunday, following a five-wicket victory over the same weekend.
Batting first in Sunday’s match, Lesotho posted 151 for seven in their allotted 20 overs, with Maaz Khan leading the scoring with a composed 45 off 32 balls.
Mohammed Jamadar contributed 28 runs from 20 balls, while Lefulere Monanthane made 21 off 19 balls and Inshaf Mohammed added 15 off 11 balls.
The hosts struggled to mount a serious chase as Lesotho’s bowling attack kept them under control, restricting HPPCC 2nd Pluckers XI to 87 for four after their 20 overs.
Tsepiso Chaoana, Inshaf Mohammed, Lefulere Monanthane and Ajaz Patel each claimed a wicket as Lesotho completed a convincing 64-run victory.
Lesotho Cricket Association (LCA) Media Liaison Officer and National Cricket Team Manager, Dr Clifford Molefe, said the two victories provided the team with valuable match exposure ahead of the World Cup qualifier.
“Two wins, one mission. The Lesotho Men’s National Cricket Team has completed a successful weekend in Harrismith, South Africa, recording two consecutive victories as part of its preparations for the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Qualifier C in Nigeria,” Molefe said.
He said Lesotho began the weekend with a five-wicket victory on Saturday, September 26, before completing the double on Sunday with the 64-run win over HPPCC 2nd Pluckers XI.
“Batting first on Sunday, Lesotho posted 151/7 in 20 overs, with Maaz Khan top-scoring with 45 off 32 balls. Mohammed Jamadar added 28, while Lefulere Monanthane scored 21,” he said.
“In reply, HPPCC second Pluckers XI finished on 87/4 in 20 overs, giving Lesotho a 64-run victory. Tsepiso Chaoana, Inshaf Mohammed, Lefulere Monanthane and Ajaz Patel each took a wicket.”
The Harrismith fixtures form part of Lesotho’s wider preparations for the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Qualifier C, which will be staged in Abuja from October 18 to 26, 2026.
The national side had earlier travelled to Bloemfontein for a preparatory engagement with Bobbies Cricket Club, although the planned friendly matches could not take place because of wet outfields.
Despite the disruption, Molefe said the trip remained productive, with the team completing two days of practice at the Knights’ indoor facility.
The sessions enabled the players to maintain their training programme while also benefiting from the knowledge and experience of the Bobbies coaching team.
According to Molefe, the interaction exposed the players to additional cricket skills, tactical approaches and practical insights that could prove useful as they prepare for the qualifier.
“The Lesotho Cricket Association appreciates the support and cooperation extended by Bobbies during the visit. The experience has added value to the national team’s ongoing preparations as the players continue working towards the ICC World Cup Qualifier in Nigeria,” he said.
With the Harrismith victories now adding competitive match experience to the team’s preparation programme, the focus shifts to maintaining momentum and sharpening both individual and collective performances.
“The focus now remains on maintaining momentum, improving individual and team performance, and ensuring that the national team is well prepared for the challenge ahead in Abuja,” Molefe said.
Summary
- The Men’s National Cricket Team has recorded back-to-back victories in Harrismith, South Africa, as preparations intensify for the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Qualifier C in Abuja, Nigeria, later next month.
- The Lesotho Men’s National Cricket Team has completed a successful weekend in Harrismith, South Africa, recording two consecutive victories as part of its preparations for the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Qualifier C in Nigeria,” Molefe said.
- He said Lesotho began the weekend with a five-wicket victory on Saturday, September 26, before completing the double on Sunday with the 64-run win over HPPCC 2nd Pluckers XI.
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