Rangers soar to NPL summit with perfect Start

Witness Runodada

ZimNow Reporter

Rangers have stamped their authority on the 2025/26 National Premier League season, moving to the top of the standings after a commanding six-wicket victory over defending champions Takashinga Patriots 1 at Old Hararians Sports Club.

The result kept Rangers’ flawless record intact, five wins from as many matches, and underlined their growing credentials as the team to beat this campaign.

Takashinga 1, came into the clash with four wins under their belt, were rocked early when their top order faltered, slipping to 49 for three. Veteran Timycen Maruma steadied the innings with a determined 61, while Hamilton Masakadza chipped in with 36, but Daniel Jakiel’s inspired five-for restricted them to 247 all out in 42.1 overs.

In reply, Rangers Though Tadiwanashe Marumani fell after a blistering cameo of 32 off just 14 balls, Brian Bennett’s composed 81 off 85 guided the chase with authority. The closing act belonged to Johnathan Campbell and Ryan Burl, who stitched together an unbeaten 71-run partnership to see Rangers home with more than eight overs to spare. Their victory, achieved with both clinical efficiency and attacking flair, sent a powerful message to the rest of the competition.

The win lifted Rangers to the summit of the table on 10 points, boasting an imposing net run rate of 3.792. They are joined on equal points by Alexandra Sports Club, who also remain unbeaten after outclassing Gladiators by 100 runs. However, Rangers’ superior net run rate keeps them ahead of their Harare rivals.