Malawi vs Botswana Prediction: Who Will Win MAL vs BOTS 7th Place Play-off T20 Match on 4th October 2025?
The Malawi vs Botswana prediction for the 7th Place Play-off of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final 2025 promises an intriguing contest. Both teams have had a tough tournament, but this match gives them a chance to end on a high note. The game is scheduled for Saturday, 4th October 2025 at Takashinga Sports Club, Harare. Cricketwebs provides comprehensive match insights including team previews, probable playing XI, fantasy tips, pitch report, and match prediction.
Match Details
| Match | MAL vs BOTS, 7th Place Play-off T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, October 4, 2025 |
| Time | 1:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Takashinga Sports Club, Harare |
| Live Stream | FanCode |
Team Previews
Malawi Preview
Malawi had an inconsistent tournament, securing only one win from four matches—a thrilling 3-run victory against Kenya. Sami Sohail starred in that win, top-scoring with 42, while their bowlers held their nerve in the final overs.
Malawi’s batting depends on middle-order contributions from Donnex Kansonkho and Gift Kansonkho, supported by Nelson Nkhoma and Shafiq Shike. If they build partnerships, Malawi can post competitive totals around 140–150.
The bowling unit, led by Chisomo Gombedza and Benson Chisiza, has shown glimpses of control in tight matches. Daniel Jakiel and Brave Chisale provide depth in the death overs, giving Malawi flexibility to defend totals.
Predicted Playing XI (Malawi):
Sami Sohail (c), Donnex Kansonkho, Gift Kansonkho, Nelson Nkhoma, Shafiq Shike, Chisomo Gombedza, Benson Chisiza, Daniel Jakiel, Brave Chisale, Moazzam Baig, Jonathan Mugochi
Botswana Preview
Botswana has struggled throughout the tournament, losing all four matches. Their batting has been fragile, with only Tharindu Perera (31*) and Vinoo Balakrishnan (38) providing resistance in patches.
Bowling has been inconsistent. Monroux Kasselman and Kenanao Rampheletsane have shown glimpses of promise but lacked penetration against stronger sides. Botswana will need a collective performance with both bat and ball to challenge Malawi.
Predicted Playing XI (Botswana):
Karabo Motlhanka (c), Vinoo Balakrishnan, Tharindu Perera, Obed Mfakama, Monroux Kasselman, Kenanao Rampheletsane, Ameer Saiyed, Reuben Tshepo, Thatayaone Tshose, Lemogang Maswabi, Dhruv Maisuria
Fantasy Team XI (MAL vs BOTS)
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Sami Sohail, Obed Mfakama |
| Batters | Donnex Kansonkho, Gift Kansonkho, Tharindu Perera |
| All-rounders | Benson Chisiza, Vinoo Balakrishnan |
| Bowlers | Chisomo Gombedza, Monroux Kasselman, Daniel Jakiel, Kenanao Rampheletsane |
Captain & Vice-Captain:
- Captain: Sami Sohail, Tharindu Perera
- Vice-Captain: Donnex Kansonkho, Benson Chisiza
Players to avoid:
- Moazzam Baig (inconsistent), Reuben Tshepo (struggling form)
Favourite Team
Malawi enters this match as the favourite. They have shown resilience in pressure situations, especially in their close victory against Kenya. Their bowling attack is slightly more balanced than Botswana’s, and their batting depth provides multiple options to build a competitive total. Botswana’s campaign has been fragile with both bat and ball, making it difficult for them to dominate against a determined Malawi side. Psychological edge, tournament experience, and balance in all departments make Malawi the stronger contender.
Malawi T20 History
Malawi has played 64 T20Is, winning 30 and losing 31. They have steadily improved their performances in Africa qualifiers, showing promise in crucial matches.
Botswana T20 History
Botswana has played 56 T20Is, winning 21 and losing 34. They have struggled against stronger African sides but remain competitive in regional tournaments.
Malawi vs Botswana Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | Total | Malawi Won | Botswana Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
Analysis: Botswana has the upper hand historically, winning two of the three previous encounters. However, Malawi’s current form and ability to perform under pressure make them a strong contender for this match.
Pitch Report
Takashinga Sports Club offers a balanced pitch, favouring both batters and bowlers. Scores of 140–150 are competitive, while spinners could play a key role in the middle overs.
Weather Report
Forecast predicts sunny conditions with temperatures between 21–29°C, ensuring a full match without weather interruptions.
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: FanCode
Toss Prediction
Toss will be crucial. The team winning it may prefer batting first to put runs on the board and exert pressure on the opponent.
Score Prediction
- Malawi Bat First: 140+
- Botswana Bat First: 131+
Winning Chances: Malawi 72%, Botswana 28%
Match Prediction
Winner Prediction: Malawi Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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