Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Chevrons will be hoping Brian Bennett is certified fit to return for the second test against South Africa at Queens Sports Club.
After the 328 defeat to the Proteas in the first test, captain Craig Ervine was frank every player must raise the level, if they are entertaining chances of levelling the series.
And Ervine also reckons Bennett, who suffered a concussion, return could be a boost for the team.
“From a batting perspective, a few guys got starts including myself, but we need to go on and get 100s, 30s and 40s won’t cut it at this level. Bennett is still being monitored, but hopefully he’s fit before the second Test,” Ervine was quoted by Cricinfo as saying.
South Africa were 28-3 early on Day 1, but they never looked back.
There were centuries for debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Bosch in the first innings.
After they got that first innings lead of 167 despite a superb Sean Williams century, Wiaan Mulder made an impressive 147 in the Proteas’ second innings, before finished the game as a context midway through Day 4.
Despite South Africa dominance, there were some positives from Zimbabwe’s bowling department.
“I thought Blessing and Chivanga started really well. In hindsight, another seamer would’ve done us a few more favours in the first session after bowling first. We thought there would be a little bit more turn on offer as the Test match went on,” he added.
“Williams was exceptional. Nice, positive cricket. He was always looking to score. Credit to him. Disappointing that there was no one to support him to get us to a more respectable total. Spin department could be a little bit more consistent. ”
The Chevrons will be hoping to turn the tables in the second test match starting on Sunday, 6 July.
