Streak's strikes give Zimbabwe the upper hand

Close, Day 2 Zimbabweans 330 (Wishart 100) lead Western Australia 207 for 6 (North 59, Streak 3-35) by 123 runs

Heath Streak's value to the Zimbabweans was superbly demonstrated when he took three wickets in the opening spell of his side's defence of their total of 330 against Western Australia at Perth. Then to add to that he produced a fine throw, with one stump to aim at, to get a timely run-out as WA struggled to 207 for 6 by stumps.

It was a competitive showing by the Zimbabweans, who gave their innings a boost earlier after Craig Wishart had achieved his century, although he was dismissed almost as soon as he had reached the mark. Streak wasn't able to add to his overnight 45, although he took some time attempting to, in what was a slow first hour. Paul Wilson was in fine touch for WA, picking up both wickets in a nine-over spell that included seven maidens and brought him 2 for 5.

However, Andy Blignaut breathed life and action into the innings by hitting 57 off 78 balls, and putting on 63 for the last wicket, of which Ray Price contributed only 8 before the innings ended just before lunch.

WA had reached 21 before Streak managed to trap his rival captain Mike Hussey leg-before for 15. Chris Rogers and Marcus North continued to attack and by the 14th over they had added 60. But Streak had Rogers caught for 20, and eight runs later added Shaun Marsh's scalp to his belt. By the end of an enjoyable day on the field, Streak had 3 for 35. But off the field the news wasn't so good, as left-arm spinner Price injured himself in the showers during the tea break and was unable to field during the last session. No details have yet emerged about the extent of his injury.

Out in the middle, North was joined by Scott Meuleman, and they combined in a fine recovery stand of 88. And that was where the Zimbabweans were exposed: while Streak was most effective, he lacked support. Blignaut could not find his rhythm at all and overstepped the mark nine times. With more consistency he could be a genuine menace on this WACA pitch, but he couldn't harness his best today. Despite that, he did break the partnership when North edged an attempted slash through to Tatenda Taibu, the wicketkeeper, when he had made 59.

Taibu struck again two balls later when Ryan Campbell tried to blast one through the off side but only managed a thick edge. When, 12 runs later, Streak's throw found Meuleman short of his ground, WA were struggling at 168 for 6. But Peter Worthington and Beau Casson survived the last 12 overs of the day to take them to 207, by which time Worthington had 30 not out.