CHEVRONS ON THE BRINK, SA run riot as Zimbabwe faces innings defeat

Brandon Moyo

A MONUMENTAL task lies ahead for the Chevrons on day three of the second Test against a ruthless South Africa at Queens Sports Club.

Zimbabwe are staring down the barrel of an innings defeat, trailing by a massive 405 runs after being forced to follow on. They resume today on 51/1, with nine wickets in hand, after losing Dion Myers for 11 late on day two.

South Africa declared their first innings on a massive 626/5, with skipper Wiaan Mulder finishing unbeaten on 367. The Proteas powerhouse chose not to chase Brian Lara’s world record of 400, saying the legendary West Indian should keep the crown.
“I could have pushed, but Lara is a legend and that record belongs to him,” Mulder reportedly said after walking off.

Zimbabwe’s first innings crumbled for just 170 runs, with Sean Williams standing alone amid the wreckage. He fought hard with an unbeaten 83 — his seventh Test half-ton — but got little support from the rest of the batting line-up.

With South Africa dominating both bat and ball, day three could very well be the final nail in the coffin for the hosts. Only a miracle stand can save the Chevrons from another bruising defeat.