Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo-Zimpapers Sports Hub
TUSKERS began their 2025/26 Logan Cup campaign with a story of renewal at Queens Sports Club yesterday, where two young men, Tawanda Maposa and Tanunurwa Makoni, announced a new chapter for Bula-wayo’s first class side.
At 24, Maposa marked his debut in style, top scoring with a fluent 82 runs that set the tone for a rebuilding Tuskers outfit eager to turn promise into results.
Partnering him in that spirit of transition was Makoni, who struck a composed 64, the pair recording the season’s first half centuries.
Their combined effort anchored Tuskers’ first innings total of 242 all out in 76.5 overs before the bowlers struck early blows to leave Southern Rocks on 28 for 2 at stumps, still trailing by 214 runs.
The day didn’t begin smoothly.
Bright Phiri was dismissed for a four ball duck in the very first over, leaving Tuskers wobbling at 1 for 1.
But captain Tafara Mupariwa steadied things with Makoni, the duo crafting a measured 70 run stand for the second wicket. Mupariwa fell for a hard fought 42 off 102 balls, and that dismissal triggered a mini collapse that saw the middle order falter.
Veteran Brian Chari managed only four, while Aliakbar Hamid chipped in with 16. When Munashe Chimusoro and Makoni fell in quick succession, Tuskers were tottering at 135 for 5. Yet from the turmoil emerged Maposa’s calm assurance.
Mixing patience with clean striking, Maposa rebuilt the innings with a composed 55 run partnership along side Tanatswa Bechani, who contributed eight. His 82 came from 92 deliveries and included 12 well timed boundaries, the innings breathing life into a batting card that had wobbled under pressure.
Once Maposa fell, caught after an innings that radiated composure and control, the tail folded quickly. Ainsley Ndlovu lasted three balls, while Ernest Masuku made four before Tuskers were bowled out.
For Rocks, Takudzwa Chataira and Owen Muzondo shared three wickets each, with Tafara Chingwara taking two. William Mashinge and Roy Kaia chipped in with one apiece.
If Tuskers’ batting was about renewal, their bowling hinted at resurgence. Opening bowler Mgcini Dube struck in his very first over, having Innocent Kaia caught behind for five.
Masuku followed up moments later, clean bowling Matthew Campbell for four.
By the close of play, the home side had turned a middling batting effort into a position of control. As the new Logan Cup season unfolds, Maposa’s debut and Makoni’s maturity could well mark the beginning of a new era for the Bulawayo franchise, one built on promise, patience, and quiet confidence.
Play resumes at 10am today.
