Zimbabwe lose to New Zealand

Zimbabwe's bid for a a semi final berth suffered a setback when they lost their first game in Group F to New Zealand.

The match that ended 79-36 in favor of the Silver Ferns, means New Zealand have now four wins in four games, while the Gems have two wins and two losses so far.

Meanwhile. fellow Africans and neighbours Malawi won their first game in the same group as Zimbabwe after defeating Northern Ireland narrowly by 47-43.

The win is Malawi's third in a row and the team ranked 9th in the world have only tasted defeat once at this year's World Cup, their opening day loss to New Zealand.

The top two teams in Group F that also includes reigning champions Australia and Barbados, will proceed to the semi finals.