Anesu Mushangwe, instrumental in the Adelaide Strikers’ consecutive Women’s Big Bash League triumphs in December, is no stranger to challenges.
Mushangwe’s journey to becoming the first Zimbabwean to clinch the Women’s Big Bash League title in Australia was a tale of resilience. Facing a challenging childhood, she missed an early touring opportunity due to financial constraints and battled bureaucratic hurdles for years, delaying her selection opportunities.
Yet, these hurdles didn’t deter her from flourishing in cricket.
At 14, in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, Mushangwe skipped athletics to pursue cricket. Her initial training was humble – practicing with a friend on a veranda, using lemons instead of cricket balls. This friend, despite his physical limitations, was a key figure in her early development.
“He was my guide and my inspiration,” says Mushangwe, now 27, during her interview with BBC World Service’s Stumped.
Her pivot to a cricket career
Mushangwe’s cricket aspirations initially stalled when financial constraints prevented her from joining Zimbabwe’s Under-19 team in South Africa. It wasn’t until 18 that she refocused on cricket, making a crucial change in her style.
“I transitioned from medium pace bowling to spin, a self-taught journey,” she reflects.
Her shift to right-hand leg-spinning led to regular international play, and in 2019, her talents took her to Australia. Her rise was meteoric at Glenelg Cricket Club, Adelaide, eventually leading her to captain the T20 team.
Despite her quick ascent, Mushangwe initially doubted her fit with the South Australian Scorpions. However, her determination saw her improve her skills significantly.
Big Bash Success and National Recognition
Mushangwe’s path was not without its visa-related interruptions, leading to a near three-year absence from international cricket. Her triumphant return in April 2022 saw her top the charts in a tri-series, leading to her historic signing with Adelaide Strikers.
Her debut season was modest, but she shone brightly in the 2023 season, playing a pivotal role in the team’s success. Her standout performance in the final over against Sydney Thunder is a testament to her skill and composure.
“We’ve defended smaller totals,” Mushangwe recalls. “That belief and energy within the team were palpable.”
The team’s success was celebrated with a reception hosted by South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas.
Perseverance Amidst Challenges
Mushangwe’s journey was marked by personal and financial struggles, including being left out of the national squad due to her inability to afford a passport.
Her relentless drive, she believes, stems from her upbringing.
“It was always about fighting and pushing through. I had to rely on my belief and effort,” she explains.
Despite her family’s limited interest in cricket, Mushangwe’s father is her biggest supporter. As she ponders her future, possibly in coaching, she remains focused on her playing career.
“My cricket journey feels like it’s just beginning,” Mushangwe concludes, eyes firmly set on her ongoing journey in the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Anesu Mushangwe Cricket Career
Who is Anesu Mushangwe?
Anesu Mushangwe is a Zimbabwean cricketer who became a star player for the Adelaide Strikers in Australia’s Women’s Big Bash League. She overcame numerous challenges, including financial constraints and bureaucratic issues, to achieve success in her cricket career.
How did Anesu Mushangwe start her cricket career?
Mushangwe’s cricket journey began in her hometown of Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe, where she practiced with lemons instead of cricket balls. She initially played as a medium pace bowler but later transitioned to spin bowling, which she taught herself.
What challenges did Anesu Mushangwe face in her career?
Mushangwe faced several obstacles, including financial difficulties that prevented her from touring with Zimbabwe’s Under-19 team and bureaucratic delays that hindered her selection for years. She also had to adapt her playing style to succeed at the international level.
What achievements has Anesu Mushangwe made in cricket?
Mushangwe became the first Zimbabwean to win the Women’s Big Bash League with the Adelaide Strikers. She also became a regular international player as a right-hand leg-spinner and played a key role in her team’s victories, including a masterful final over in a crucial game against Sydney Thunder.
What is Anesu Mushangwe’s future in cricket?
While Mushangwe has taken coaching qualifications and contemplates a future in coaching, she remains focused on her playing career. She feels her journey in cricket is just beginning and is excited about her ongoing contributions to the sport.
More about Anesu Mushangwe Cricket Career
- Adelaide Strikers Official Website
- Women’s Big Bash League
- Zimbabwe Cricket
- BBC World Service: Stumped Interview with Anesu Mushangwe
- Glenelg Cricket Club Profile: Anesu Mushangwe
- South Australian Scorpions Team Information
- Cricket Australia News: Anesu Mushangwe’s Journey
5 comments
Love seeing more stories about women in cricket. The Big Bash League is really showcasing some amazing talent. Go Anesu and Adelaide Strikers!
Proud to see a Zimbabwean making waves in international cricket. Anesu is a true role model for young athletes back home.
Amazing story! it’s not just about talent, but also about perseverance and hard work. Anesu’s journey is a testament to that.
Wow, Anesu’s story is really inspiring! It’s not easy to overcome such obstacles, especially in sports. Kudos to her for pushing through and achieving her dreams.
Interesting how she switched from medium pace to spin bowling. Shows how adaptable and dedicated she is to her craft.