Zimbabweans bounce back in South Africa

The touring Zimbabweans thrashed Highveld Lions Academy by seven wickets at the High Performance Centre in Pretoria, two days after being drubbed by nine wickets by the South African National Academy.

The Zimbabweans bounced back well, and led from the front by skipper and offspinner Prosper Utseya with 4 for 25 from 10 overs, they bowled out the Academy for 165 runs. Spinners shared eight wickets, with Friday Kasteni chipping in with three and offspinner Stuart Matsikenyeri taking one.

Chamu Chibhabha and Vusi Sibanda got the Zimbabweans off to a good start with an opening stand of 85 before Sibanda was caught by Nicolson at short extra cover. Chibhabha completed his half-century before chipping a return catch for 55, but Piet Rikne (32) and Brendan Taylor (25) held their nerves and scored steadily. Rinke was bowled by Craig Knox with Zimbabwe needing 12 to win.