Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo
at Queens Sports Club
A DAY that began with Zimbabwe breathing fire ended with South Africa firmly in charge after a brutal counterattack in the opening Test at Queens Sports Club.
At stumps, the Proteas were 418/9, recovering from a shaky 90/4 at lunch to dominate the last two sessions thanks to twin tons from debutants Lhuan-dre Pretorious and Corbin Bosch.
Pretorious lit up the crease with a flamboyant 153 off just 160 balls, smashing the Chevrons to all corners before falling in the final session. Bosch, showing grit and class, remains unbeaten on 100 off 124 balls. Dewald Brevis added fireworks with a quickfire 51 from 41 deliveries.
Zimbabwe’s morning magic, led by pace ace Tanaka Chivanga who bagged 4/83 in 16 overs, faded as the day wore on. Blessing Muzarabani grabbed two wickets while spinners Vincent Masekesa and Wellington Masakadza chipped in with one each.
Tea had seen South Africa steadying at 248/6 with Bosch and Pretorious forming a crucial stand. By close, the damage had been done.
All eyes now turn to day two, with play set to resume at 10am sharp on Sunday. Will the Chevrons fight back or will the Proteas pile on more pain?
Londile Moyo