Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ANTUM Naqvi’s brilliant century, supported by fine knocks from Clive Madande and Tinotenda Maposa, helped Zimbabwe ‘A’ secure a hard-fought draw against the touring Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) at Old Hararians Sports Club on Sunday.
Resuming the final day on 19 for one in their second innings and still 87 runs behind, the hosts were in trouble early. Opener Tanunurwa Makoni was bowled for 13, and nightwatchman Vincent Masekesa fell for six in Jasper Davidson’s fiery spell, leaving Zimbabwe ‘A’ reeling at 35 for three.
Naqvi and Madande then combined to steady the innings, putting on a spirited fourth-wicket stand of 129 runs in 31 overs. Madande was eventually caught off Mohammad Rizvi for a classy 71 from 105 balls, including eight fours and a six, giving the hosts hope.
Two quick wickets followed; captain Roy Kaia caught off Darren Ironside for eight and Tafadzwa Tsiga out for four, leaving Zimbabwe ‘A’ wobbling again at 192 for six.
But Naqvi refused to budge. Briefly joined by Tadiwanashe Marumani, who retired hurt on 16, he then found support in Tinotenda Maposa. Maposa unleashed a breathtaking assault, hitting 30 runs in a single over off Ironside – four towering sixes followed by a two and a four, to delight the crowd.
Maposa ended on 74, marking his maiden first-class fifty, while adding 118 for the seventh wicket with Naqvi to take the total to 310 for seven. Naqvi finally fell for a superb 108 from 170 balls, laced with nine fours and three sixes.
With the match safely heading for a draw, both teams agreed to call it, giving Zimbabwe ‘A’ plenty of positives from a thrilling contest.
