Zimbabwe bowlers decimated Kiwi tail
Vusi Sibanda and Hamilton Masakadza added 58 for the second wicket
© AFP
Though the tourists are in a commanding position in their one-off Test against Zimbabwe on Wednesday, yet the credit goes to Zimbabwe bowlers as they fought back strongly throughout the second day at Queens Sports Club.
Fast bowler Chris Mpofu claimed career-best figures of four for 92 as New Zealand lost their last five wickets for just 25 runs, leaving them short of the hefty total they looked destined for when they resumed on 275 for three on the second morning. Zimbabwe finished the day on 82 for loss of one wicket with opener Vusi Sibanda unbeaten on 53 in reply to New Zealand's first innings total of 426 all out.
The pitch is beginning to take turn, so it is a good omen for kiwis with much runs on the board while Zimbabwe could reflect on a good day's work with both bat and ball that Coach Alan Butcher labelled their best since returning to Test cricket in August.
Although Zimbabwe opener Tino Mawoyo was trapped lbw by Daniel Vettori in the left-arm spinner's second over, Sibanda put on an unbroken stand of 58 with Hamilton Masakadza to leave Zimbabwe 344 runs adrift at the close of play with nine wickets in hand. Sibanda led the Zimbabwe response with aplomb, and when the umpires finally pulled stumps the hosts were able to claim bragging rights for the day.
© Cricket Companion
