MOUNTAINEERS WIN T20 TOURNEY

Mountaineers managed to get 142 after winning the toss and choosing to bat on a humid afternoon in Harare.

However, Mountaineers' new-ball pair of Dirk Nannes and Shingi Masakadza rocked Eagles chase early before Chris Harris, the former New Zealand allrounder, and Prosper Utseya, the Zimbabwe offspinner, made important strikes and ensured a 27-run victory for Mountaineers.

Shingi Masakadza struck the first blow, getting rid of Ryan ten Doeschate, who had scored a rapid century in the qualifying final the previous day, in the second over of the chase. ten Doeschate cut straight to Shingi's brother Hamilton Masakadza at point when he was on just 1. Peter Trego was dismissed slashing at a Nannes delivery and when Rory Hamilton-Brown was caught at deep square leg Eagles were in trouble at 25 f or 3.


Stuart Matsikenyeri made a solid 34 and forged together a 44-run partnership with Forster Mutizwa to get Eagles back into the game. Matsikenyeri was run out in the 12th over and Mountaineers pounced on the opening. Mutizwa, who had been struck on the shoulder by a throw, gave Utseya a return catch to be dismissed for 27, Elton Chigumbura lofted Harris into the hands of long-on and Eagles could not recover. Utseya ended up with figures of 2 for 10 from three overs while Shingi Masakadza had 3 for 21, taking the final wicket with a yorker that bowled Tinotenda Mutombodzi.


It was a stirring performance from the Mountaineers bowlers after their batsmen had fallen a few runs short of a good total. After a brisk start, Mountaineers had lost three quick wickets: Kevin Kasuza was caught in the covers, Hamilton Masakadza, the Mountaineers captain, missed a yorker and was bowled and Timycen Maruma was run out. Those losses left Mountaineers 51 for 3. Phil Mustard ensured the scoring-rate did not dip, hitting seven fours and two sixes in his 56 off 31 balls.


Chris Harris played a sensible hand to steady the innings and then Shingi Masakadza chipped in with 23 runs off 18 balls. Mountaineers reached 142, which though not a big total was enough for the bowlers to defend.

GAYLE HAPPY TO PLAY IN ZIMBABWE

Former West Indies captain Chris Gayle, involved in a protracted dispute with his national board, will play in Zimbabwe's domestic T20 competition at the end of November, officials said on Monday.

Gayle, 31, has not played for West Indies since a World Cup quarter-final in March and the board (WICB) issued a statement last month saying the batsman would be considered for West Indies selection again only if he retracted statements about the board and their officials.

The left-hander responded by asking the board to "state clearly" what he should apologise for.

Gayle will play for the Matabeleland Tuskers in the T20 tournament from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4.

"I am a cricketer and I want to play," Gayle said in a statement. "I would rather be playing for the West Indies but while that's not possible I want to use my time wisely, entertain some people and try to do some good."

CHRIS GAYLE TO FEATURE FOR TUSTERS

Tournament to be staged in Harare, from 25 November to 04 December.

Zimbabwe Cricket announced the five squads for the Zimbabwe domestic franchises that will be competing in the 3rd edition of the Stanbic Bank 20 Series. The event is scheduled to start on Friday the 25th of November with the final match being played on Sunday the 4th of December at Harare Sports Club.
Mashonaland Eagles are the defending champions after winning the title in a tense battle against the MidWest Rhinos last year. The tournament has attracted foreign teams and players; this edition features twelve overseas professionals.

Sixteen matches will be played over a period of nine days at Harare Sports Club. The full match schedule can be viewed on the Zimbabwe Cricket website

Squads

Mash Eagles: Stuart Matsikenyeri (Captain); Raymond Price; Cephas Zhuwao; Regis Chakabva; Mark Mbofana; Elton Chigumbura; Kyle Jarvis; Sikanda Raza; Nathan Waller; Forster Mutizwa; Trevor Garwe; Peter Trego; Rory Hamilton Brown; Andrew Hall and Ryan Ten Doeschate

Matabeleland Tuskers: Paul Horton (Captain); Charles Coventry; Chris Mpofu; Njabulo Ncube; Bradley Staddon; Keegan Meth; Keith Dabengwa; Craig Ervine; Steve Trenchard; Gavin Ewing; Glen Querl; Tafadzwa Ngulube; Adam Wheater; Tom Smith and
Chris Gayle

MidWest Rhinos: Brendan Taylor (Captain); Roland Benade; Mike Chinouya; Graeme Cremer; Neville Madziva; Simon Mugava; Richard Muzhange; Ian Nicolson; Remembrance Nyathi; Edward Rainsford; Malcolm Waller; Gary Balance; Riki Wessels; Lou Vincent and Shaun Tait

Southern Rocks: Alester Maregwede (Captain); Roy Kaia; Chamunorwa Chibhabha; Prince Masvaure; Brian Vitori; Richmond Mutumbami; Tinashe Panyangara; Hillary Matanga; Tendai Chisoro; Alex Obanda; Tatenda Taibu; John Kent; Robertson Chinyengetere; Tanyaradzwa Munyaradzi and Tafadzwa Kamungozi

Mountaineers: Timycen Maruma (Captain); Hamilton Masakadza; Prosper Utseya; Tino Mawoyo; Shingirai Masakadza; Natsai M'Shangwe; Kevin Kasuza; Donald Tiripano; Tendai Chatara; Gary Chirimuuta; Kudzai Sauramba; Phil Mustard; Ned Eckersley; Chris Harris and
Dirk Nannes

ROEBUCK FOUND DEAD IN A HOTEL

The acclaimed cricket writer Peter Roebuck has been found dead at a hotel in Cape Town, South Africa.

Roebuck, a columnist for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, was 55.

He played for the English county Somerset, made a home in Australia, and built a reputation as arguably one of the best columnists on the sport.

Roebuck travelled widely with the Australian team, including on its current tour of South Africa, and was also a radio commentator for the ABC.

He used to write a lot about Zimbabwean cricket in particular the current leadership of Peter Chingoka and Ozias Bvute. He could have easily passed for 'enermy of the state' but at least when everyone else was shunning Zimbabwe he stood up and wrote his ocassional "expose", which kept us in the minds of the general cricketing world.

According to reports, Roebuck appeared to be in a disturbed state the night before. He was spoken to by police in his room on the sixth floor of the Southern Sun Hotel, Newlands, in Cape Town about 10pm.

It is believed police removed personal items from his room. His body was taken to the mortuary in the early hours of the morning.

SA WALK PAST AUSSIE IN A DRAMA FILLED TEST

Centuries from Hashim Amla and Graeme Smith saw South Africa to an eight-wicket victory in a memorable first Test against Australia at Newlands on Friday.

Amla hit 112 while Smith went to three figures shortly before hitting the winning runs, as the duo decided a remarkable Test match that finished before lunch on the third day.

Although Amla fell before the victory had been secured, as he was caught in the gully off the bowling of Mitchell Johnson, the job had been done and Jacques Kallis merely had to shepherd Smith to an unbeaten 101 as the Proteas eased to 236 for two.

South Africa's target had looked a stiff one when they took to the crease for the second time on a day when 23 wickets fell, but Smith and Amla made light work of it. They resumed on 81 for one on Friday morning with the game still in the balance, but ensured the Proteas had little difficulty in knocking off the 155 runs still required for victory in an extended first session.

The partnership proved that Thursday's carnage was merely the result of poor batsmanship, rather than a dodgy pitch, as the pair scored at 4.75 runs per over in a 195-run stand.

The crucial moment in the session came in just the third over when Amla edged Ryan Harris to first slip, only for Shane Watson to put down a regulation catch. Had the chance been taken then Australia might have been able to set the jitters among the Proteas batsmen, but instead Amla progressed to his half-century without any further troubles.

There was some swing and seam on offer for the pacemen in the first hour, but not as much as on day two with the pitch flattening out under sunny skies.

Australia began the session by attacking the stumps but had to revert to a more defensive approach after five or six overs as both batsmen took easy runs through the leg side. They had two shouts for lbw against Amla, one of which they referred, but both were shown to be sliding down leg.

Both batsmen went to fifty in good time - Smith took 75 balls while Amla needed 81 - but they put their feet on the gas even harder thereafter and Amla took just 45 balls for his second fifty.

He went to three figures, and 4,000 Test runs, with a fluent cut through backward point for four off Johnson, and was given a standing ovation by a noisy Newlands crowd that had grown from its size on days one and two as Capetonians came to get their fill of Test cricket before the match's premature end.

Amla was out with just 14 runs required for victory, at which point the only question was whether Smith would be able to reach his century. He duly did so with a boundary and a single off Johnson, before clipping Peter Siddle through midwicket to seal the match in the following over.

The victory means South Africa can't lose the two-Test series, which concludes in Johannesburg, where the second Test begins on November 17.

SIBANDA TO PLAY IN AUSTRALIA

Sibanda confirmed on Friday that he will play for Eastern Suburbs in Sydney Grade Cricket this summer, rather then returning to captain his Zimbabwe franchise the Midwest Rhinos.

The 28-year-old declined a contract offer from the Rhinos this season in anticipation of his Australian venture, as he looks to pick up further experience in the league he played in back in 2006.

"The main thing is the competition that I'll be playing there is a lot more competitive, and the guys I'll be playing with - the likes of David Warner and Brad Haddin - I can feed off and gain a lot of experience to better my game," he explained.

Sibanda said that he hoped to return to Zimbabwe a stronger player for the experience.

"There are all these opportunities out there, and hopefully I do well when I get there. If I do well in the first month then I'd like to think it would open up more windows for me."

Zimbabwe Cricket have made their objection clear to Sibanda, who has pursued the move for some time. He was told by Alistair Campbell, during Campbell's days as convenor of selectors, that he would not consider Sibanda for the New Zealand tour if he went and played in Australia.

Zimbabwe Cricket's reluctance stems from their desire to keep the national players within the franchise system to ensure that the competition does not become weakened.

However, when asked whether his stint in Australia would definitely rule him out of Zimbabwe's tour of New Zealand, coach Alan Butcher butted in to reply: "Not as far as he or I are concerned."

Sibanda has been a mainstay at the top of the Zimbabwe order this season, playing in all three Tests and the majority of their limited overs matches.

Zimbabwe are scheduled to play one Test, three one-day internationals and a couple of Twenty20 internationals in New Zealand.

The tour kicks off with the one-off Test in Napier on January 26

NEW ZEALAND TAKES CONTROL ON DAY 3

Daniel Vettori made his experience count as his 20th five-wicket haul in Test cricket proved the difference between Zimbabwe and New Zealand on the third day of their Test match at Queens Sports Club.

Vettori recorded healthy figures of five for 70 as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 313, before New Zealand closed day three on 28 for two, giving them an overall lead of 141.

With the fast bowlers struggling to make inroads into the Zimbabwean line-up, the left-arm spinner ensured that the Black Caps maintained control of the match despite the hosts claiming two wickets late in the day.

Martin Guptill was bowled by Kyle Jarvis in the first over of New Zealand's second innings, while Ray Price struck in his first over to trap Brendon McCullum leg before wicket.

The two early wickets kept Zimbabwe in touch after their batsmen had missed opportunities to put pressure on New Zealand, with Vusi Sibanda and Tatenda Taibu guilty of throwing their wickets away.

Malcolm Waller hit an impressive 72 not out, but with the tail exposed he was left stranded as Zimbabwe managed a total below their expectations.

Waller became the 11th Zimbabwean to make a score of fifty or more on debut - a feat that was achieved by his father, Andrew, against England on this ground in 1996.

Sibanda had resumed on 53 not out and looked set for a maiden Test century until he cut part-time seamer Dean brownlie straight to gully to depart for 93.

Brendan Taylor continued his fine form against New Zealand as he went to lunch on 50 not out, but when he was trapped lbw to Vettori four balls after lunch the hosts needed to rebuild.

Instead Taibu's reckless shot off Vettori found mid-off to leave Zimbabwe on 198 for five, and the hosts were indebted to an 86-run partnership between Waller and Regis Chakabva for avoiding a disastrous total.

The pair saw off the second new ball to take the home side to tea on 265 for five, but another unnecessary dismissal show ended the stand when Chakabva was needlessly run out for 37.

That allowed New Zealand to attack Zimbabwe's weak tail, and just 29 runs were added thereafter - most of them by Waller - as Chris Martin picked up two wickets to move past the 200 mark in Test cricket.

"Whenever you come here you know the wicket is going to be pretty flat so it's going to be a lot of work and we expected that today, so to walk off the park 140 runs ahead is a pretty pleasing day and we know tomorrow is going to be the most important day of the Test match," said Vettori.

"I think it's about how much time we give ourselves to bowl at Zimbabwe more than the actual total we put up. We've seen how slow the wicket is - maybe it's starting to break up a bit - but we probably want 100 overs at Zimbabwe, which means 10 overs at the end of tomorrow.

"We have to bat well in the morning and set up up the game for ourselves in the first session, which will hopefully allow us to build some momentum in the middle and late session."

Kane Williamson went to stumps on 13 not out, while nightwatchman Jeetan Patel was unbeaten on four.

ZIM TAKE CHARGE ON DAY TWO

Zimbabwe claimed the honours on the second day of their Test against New Zealand, but are likely to face a trial by spin as they continue their response to New Zealand's first innings total of 426 in Bulawayo.

The hosts closed on 82 for one, with Vusi Sibanda leading the charge with an unbeaten half-century after Chris Mpofu's career-best figures in Test cricket saw New Zealand lose their last five wickets for just 25 runs.

Sibanda's confident 53 came off 123 balls, but he wasn't shy about bringing out the pull shot to pick up boundaries at any opportunity.

He was well supported by Hamilton Masakadza in an unbroken 58-run stand for the second wicket after an overly tentative Tino Mawoyo had been trapped lbw in Daniel Vettori's second over of the match.

Although the pitch remained true throughout the day, it took increasing turn and Vettori will remain Zimbabwe's toughest opponent with the ball as their innings progresses.

Mpofu recorded figures of 4 for 92, and saved his best spell for last as he sent down six overs to take three for 14 as he wrapped up the tail in quick time.

Left-arm spinner Ray Price picked up the first and last wickets of the sequence that saw New Zealand's lower order cumble, with Mpofu removing the three batsmen in between.

Dean Brownlie's half-century on debut seemed to have set New Zealand up for a declaration as he lifted the scoring rate with Vettori after lunch.

A disciplined bowling performance from Zimbabwe had seen them pick up two wickets and restrict the New Zealand scoring on the second morning, but Vettori took just two deliveries after the break to find the boundary.

The pair added 74 runs in 14 overs as they took the attack to Zimbabwe, until Brownlie paid the price for over-aggression as a swipe across the line at a Price delivery resulted in an edge to slip, ending his innings on 63.

Meanwhile Vettori raced to 40 from just 58 deliveries as he took a particular liking to Price, but was caught at slip off the bowling of Mpofu to spark a late collapse.

Morning rain had meant that play was delayed by 45 minutes at the start of the day by a wet outfield, but with lunch pushed back by half an hour only 15 minutes were lost from the opening session.

With conditions freshened up by the rain, and a relatively new second ball still in hand, Njabulo Ncube picked up his first Test wicket in his first over of the day as he snatched the big scalp of Ross Taylor.

The New Zealand captain failed to add to his overnight score of 76 before he chased a wide delivery and edged through to the wicketkeeper Regis Chakabva.

Mpofu picked up the other wicket of the first session, surprising BJ Watling with a lifting delivery that caught the edge on its way to Chakabva, who took a good one-handed catch low to his right.

The majority of the morning saw Zimbabwe set defensive fields and bowl strict lines, which allowed the Black Caps to add just 52 runs over the course of 27 overs.

Martin Guptill's second Test century formed the backbone of the New Zealand innings on the first day, when his 109 allowed the tourists to reach 275 for three at stumps on Tuesday evening.

CAMPBELL STEPS DOWN

Alistair Campbell stepped down from his position as Zimbabwe chairman of selectors with immediate effect on Tuesday.

Since his appointment to the post in July 2009, Campbell has had the dual responsibilities of both convener of selectors and chairman of the ZC board's cricket committee.

He expressed the desire to concentrate on his activities with the cricket committee as well as his work as a cricket commentator.

"It has been the greatest of pleasures to select the sides that have spearheaded Zimbabwe's return to Test cricket and I feel now that it would be best to concentrate my expertise on governing the structure of the game as part of the cricket committee. I have every confidence in the panel," said Campbell.

"I leave behind and look forward to watching teams that are a true representation of the vast amount of talent and experience we have in this country."

Campbell will be replaced by former wicketkeeper-batsman Wayne James.

James played four Tests and eleven ODIs for Zimbabwe and will join Kevin Curran and Givemore Makoni on the selection panel.

SOUTHEE OUT OF ZIM TEST

New Zealand will be without fast bowler Tim Southee for the entire duration of the upcoming tour of Zimbabwe. Southee was initially left out of the limited-overs sides after suffering a cartilage damage to his left knee while preparing for the Champions League Twenty20. National selection manager Kim Littlejohn had been hopeful that Southee would recover in time for the one-off Test from November 1, but it has emerged that he has not recovered sufficiently.

"The latest scans show that the knee injury has improved but the injury has not completely gone away," Littlejohn said. "We are taking a long-term view with Tim's injury and have opted to extend his recovery period rather than rush him back too soon. He is expected to be fully fit and available for December's Test series against Australia."

Graeme Aldridge, who is already part of the Twenty20 and ODI squad, will stay back for the one-off Test match. New Zealand are also without Hamish Bennett, who shared new-ball duties with Southee during the World Cup in India. The returning Kyle Mills will share the new-ball duties with Chris Martin, Andy McKay and Aldridge.

Test squad: Ross Taylor (capt), Doug Bracewell, Dean Brownlie, Martin Guptill, Jesse Ryder, Chris Martin, Brendon McCullum, Andy McKay, Kyle Mills, Jeetan Patel, Graeme Aldridge, Daniel Vettori, Kane Williamson, BJ Watling, Reece Young

MATSIKENYERI BOUNCES BACK

Two hundreds from two old school friends lit up the latest round of Zimbabwe's 50-over championship, Stuart Matsikenyeri and Tatenda Taibu contributing two eye-catching centuries that were both made from No. 4 for their respective teams. While Matsikenyeri's unbeaten 110 - his first List A hundred in his 20 1st matches - set up a 117-run win for Mashonaland Eagles, Taibu's run-a-ball 106 helped Southern Rocks squeeze to a tie in a high-scoring match against Mid West Rhinos.

Eagles were thankful for Matsikenyeri's effort at Mutare Sports Club as no other batsman made more than 25 and he did much to hold the innings together after they had slipped to precarious 107 for 5. He found able partners in Trevor Garwe, Nathan Waller and Ray Price, bringing up a 123-ball century in the 47th over and staying until the end to guide Eagles to 269 for 9.

Mountaineers' reply never got going, with both openers falling in the teens. Hamilton Masakadza's 81-ball 71 kept up their hopes, but once he was dismissed the fight went from the innings. Kyle Jarvis was the main destroyer, his dimissal of Masakadza sparking a dramatic collapse as the last five wickets fell for just two runs in the space of less than three overs.

In Masvingo, an ominously strong showing from Mid West Rhinos' top order boosted them to 305 for 8 after they had chosen to bat. Vusi Sibanda (47), Gary Ballance (46) and Brendan Taylor (55) all showed their class before Malcolm Waller's bellicose 59-ball 86 ensured Rhinos would reach an imposing total.

Rocks' initial response lacked the same fluency, but Robertson Chinyengetere shared in a 166-run stand with Taibu at better than a-run-a-ball to tilt the match in their favour. When he was dismissed, Rocks needed 77 in just under 12 overs, but the pressure proved telling on the lower order. Taibu could not stick around to finish the job, becoming one of offspinner Simon Mugava's three victims, but Tendai Chisoro's rapid 29 took Rocks close before a final effort from Hilary Matanga drew the scores level.

Eagles' win solidified their position at the top of the points table, while Rhinos, Rocks and Mountaineers are all still languishing winless.

DOMESTIC LEAGUE KICKS OFF

An all-round show from the Matabeleland Tuskers carried them to a convincing win over the Mountaineers in the first round of the matches of the MetBank Pro50 Championship at the Mutare Sports Club.

After being sent in to bat, Tuskers got off to a wobbly start losing three wickets with 52 runs of the board. However a 61-run third-wicket partnership between Craig Ervine and Keith Dabengwa steadied the innings. Ervine was dismissed for 47, but Dabengwa, who remained unbeaten on 82, combined with No. 7 Keegan Meth (43*) to put on an unbroken 108-run stand that lifted Tuskers to a solid 240 for 5.

In reply, the Mountaineers' batsmen never got going as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Only Masakadza, batting at No. 8, managed to get into the twenties as they were bowled out for 109 in just under 34 overs. Chris Mpofu and Meth did the damage, picking up four wickets apiece as Tuskers registered a comfortable 131-run win.

In a rain-affected match at the Masvingo Sports Club, Mashonaland Eagles beat Southern Rocks by six wickets (D/L method).

The match was reduced to 40 overs after rain stopped play just 2.1 into the Rocks innings. Three of their batsmen got into the twenties while Mark Vermeulen top scored with 41, but none of them went on to make a big score as they were restricted to 186 for 8. Nathan Waller and Mark Mbofana picked up two wickets apiece.

Eagles lost Sikandar Raza in the second over but Forster Mutizwa, unbeaten on 73, and Stuart Matsikenyeri (26) and Mbofana (24*) ensured there were no further alarms as Eagles reached the target with 13 balls to spare.

ZIM LOSE T20 SERIES

Pakistan completed a clean sweep of Zimbabwe in all three formats of the game, with a victory in the second Twenty20 in an exciting, last-ball finish in Harare. Zimbabwe's chase - thanks to controlled bowling from Pakistan - did not have any momentum until the final over, when Tatenda Taibu attacked.

With 20 runs required off six balls, Taibu smacked the first delivery for a six over long-on to set the tone for a fighting finish. His feisty running ensured two runs off each of the next four deliveries and left him with six to get off the last ball. Sohail Khan held his nerve and bowled a low, full toss wide outside off stump. Taibu had backed away to the leg side and was not even able to play a shot. It brought an anti-climatic end to a chase that Zimbabwe allowed to get too big for them, when it should not have.


Vusi Sibanda and Chamu Chibhabha began with the right intent, Sibanda opening the innings with a gorgeously straight drive for four. They scored a boundary off each of the first four overs but did not rotate the strike enough, and the required run-rate rose. Chibhabha tried to break the shackles when Saeed Ajmal came on, looking to loft over long on, but was caught by a backpedalling Yasir Shah outside the circle.

Ajmal's opening wicket maiden put the brakes on Zimbabwe's chase and they stayed on until the final over. Sibanda frustration grew and he was dismissed by a good Hafeez catch at point while attempting a big hit. Hafeez's Midas touch with both bat and ball was evident and he bowled Cephas Zhuwao with a straight delivery. He also claimed the wickets of Hamilton Maskadza, who gifted him a catch in his follow through, and Brendan Taylor, who was caught by Misbah-ul-Haq at midwicket.

With Zimbabwe's chase unravelling, big-hitting Charles Coventry flung his bat at the first three Junaid Khan deliveries he faced. Two of them went for four and the third he bottom-edged onto his stumps. Elton Chigumbura was able to play a few forceful shots, driving down the ground and pulling with relative ease, but was bogged down by bowling that was too good for him to smash out of the ground.


Pakistan's bowlers did not panic, even when it went down to the last over. Taibu had to marshal both Prosper Utseya and himself but in the end, Sohail had the final say.


Zimbabwe, however, had put on an improved display in the field, bowled better lengths and took all the catches they were offered to keep Pakistan to under 150. Taylor was innovative with his bowling changes and, after opening with a spinner, introduced Chibhabha in the third over. Chibhabha struck when Asad Shafiq tried to launch a length ball for six but was caught by Chigumbura at long-on.


Two balls later, Rameez Raja was caught at short fine leg. Kyle Jarvis, who bowled better lengths than he did in the previous couple of matches, banged in a short ball and Raja, late on the pull, and gifted Ray Price a simple catch. The hosts inflicted a third early wound on Pakistan when Shoaib Malik was caught behind off Chigumbura, after slashing at wide delivery.


Hafeez rode the tide and played another important innings, targeting the spinners in particular. While Hafeez was at the crease, Umar Akmal could afford to be watchful, especially against Chigumbura, who bowled a controlled spell dotted with slower balls. Price eventually got Hafeez, who lofted towards long-on but just did not have enough on it to clear the boundary.


Hafeez's departure resulted in the runs, and more importantly, the boundaries drying up and Pakistan only scored 36 runs in the last five overs. Akmal was run out returning for a second, caught well short of his crease by a Chigumbura throw, and big-hitting Tanvir was bowled by Jarvis. Jarvis was solid at the death and made good use of yorkers, a delivery he is close to perfecting.

TROTT GETS CRICKETER OF THE YEAR

England batsman,Jonathan Trott has been named the Cricketer of the Year for 2011, the ICC's top accolade. He received the Sir Garfield Sobers trophy at the annual ceremony in London, after his team-mate Alastair Cook had won the Test Cricketer of the Year award.


"It's fantastic to be part of a successful team and I never envisaged winning this award. It's a brilliant feeling to be recognised," Trott said.

In 12 Tests during the period under consideration, Trott scored 1042 runs at an average of 65.12, including four centuries and three half-centuries. He also played 24 ODIs, scoring 1064 runs at an average of 48.36 with two centuries and nine 50s. Trott was chosen for the award ahead of Cook, last-year's winner Sachin Tendulkar and South Africa batsman Hashim Amla.

Previous winners of the Cricketer of the Year award include Rahul Dravid (2004), Andrew Flintoff and Jacques Kallis (joint winners in 2005), Ricky Ponting (2006 and 2007), Shivnarine Chanderpaul (2008), Mitchell Johnson (2009) and Sachin Tendulkar (2010).

Cook, however, won the Test Cricketer award after having a prolific year in the format. Cook played 12 Tests, and in 18 innings he scored 1302 runs at an average of 51.74, including six centuries and four half-centuries. His 235 not out against Australia in Brisbane kick-started England's first Ashes victory away from home since 1986-87.


Kumar Sangakkara, the former Sri Lanka captain, was the only player to win two awards on the night. He was named the ODI Cricketer of the Year and also picked up the People's Choice Award. Sangakkara scored 1049 runs at an average of 55.21 in 25 ODIs. He also had 26 catches and 10 stumpings as wicketkeeper and led Sri Lanka to the final of the 2011 World Cup.


Though India spent most of the period under consideration at No. 1 in the Test rankings, and won the 2011 World Cup, their only award winner was the captain MS Dhoni, who was given the Spirit of Cricket accolade. Dhoni was not present at the ceremony despite being in England.


The ICC chose West Indies legspinner Devendra Bishoo, ahead of other nominees Darren Bravo, Wahab Riaz and Azhar Ali, for the Emerging Player Award. Bishoo, 25, played five Tests in the voting period and took 21 wickets at an average of 35.42. He also picked up 19 wickets at 21.57 each in 11 ODIs.


Ryan ten Doeschate, the Netherlands allrounder, was named the ICC Associate and Affiliate Player of the Year for the third time in four years, and for the second year running. ten Doeschate was chosen ahead of Afghanistan allrounder Hamid Hassan, and the Irish duo of Paul Stirling and Kevin O'Brien, both centurions in the 2011 World Cup.


New Zealand seamer Tim Southee won the award for Twenty20 International Performance of the Year, for his spell of 5 for 18 against Pakistan in Auckland.


Pakistan umpire Aleem Dar has won the David Shepherd trophy for the Umpire of the Year for the third consecutive time. He beat competition from Steve Davis, Ian Gould and five-time winner Simon Taufel.


Stafanie Taylor, the West Indies women's allrounder, was named the ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year.

DROPPED CATCHES COST US BUTCHER

Zimbabwe's coach, Alan Butcher, singled out dropped catches as the reason for his team squandering their chance of being competitive in the latter stages of the Test against Pakistan. Zimbabwe dropped six catches in Pakistan's first innings and conceded a lead of 54 runs, after they had scored an impressive 412 themselves.

"Catching probably cost us a chance of winning," Butcher said. "We had every reason to believe that we would get a first-innings lead." Mohammad Hafeez, who was Pakistan's only centurion, was dropped twice, while Misbah-ul-Haq, Younis Khan and Umar Akmal were also put down. The bulk of the missed chances were relatively simple and Brendan Taylor said the team felt a general "frustration" at not taking their opportunities.

They were less hard on themselves for the batting collapse in the second innings, which resulted in Pakistan being given a small target to chase. "On this wicket there was always potential for a collapse," Butcher said. "[Saeed] Ajmal will cause better teams than ours some problems but we were disappointed to lose so many wickets to Hafeez in the second innings, because we thought he didn't spin it that much."

Hafeez took four middle- and lower-order wickets after Ajmal had bagged three, with Aizaz Cheema chipping in with one. After slumping 69 for 8 on the fourth day, defeat appeared certain for Zimbabwe, but Tatenda Taibu's stubborn half-century gave them slim hope of posting a defendable total. "We wanted to try and bat a session, bat some time out of the game and then chip away and build a lead," Taylor said. "We knew anything could happen given their [Pakistan's] history."

For a change, "anything" did not happen and Pakistan went on to record a routine victory. Zimbabwe lost by a smaller margin than the last time they played Pakistan - a 10-wicket defeat in Bulawayo in 2002 - and instead of dwell on the defeat they are opting to zone in on other aspects of their game as they look to rebuild a reputation in Test cricket.

"There are a lot of positives to take out of this," Taylor said "I wouldn't say more than the Bangladesh game, but there are definitely positives. It was good to see us bat for 150 overs." Butcher also lauded the first innings effort, in particular Tino Mawoyo's maiden Test century. "Having an opening batsman bat through an innings was good."

Ajmal proved the major threat of the match, and tested Zimbabwe right through the first innings, even when the pitch had yet to show cracks. Butcher was pleased with the way Zimbabwe tried to withstand his assault. "We said if he is going to get a lot of wickets, then we will make him bowl a lot of overs for it and we made Ajmal bowl 50 overs to get his four wickets."

The Zimbabwe bowlers had a tough time on an unresponsive strip and Taylor thought, "The spinners worked hard together and showed good character," while Butcher was impressed that, "having conceded so quickly at the start to have pulled it back was also good."

Zimbabwe's inexperienced seam attack of Brian Vitori, Kyle Jarvis and Chris Mpofu took a pasting, managing only four wickets between them. Vitori, the nation's wonderkid after his performances against Bangladesh, did not snag a single victim. "There were high hopes for him after Harare, he is hungry to learn," Taylor said. "He has a great attitude and he will be back."

Butcher said the unhelpful surface will only aid Vitori's development. "It took him a lot longer to find his length," he said. "He has probably been brought back down to earth after his spectacular start but it was always going to happen." While Vitori was expensive, Jarvis and Mpofu leaked a little less and Taylor said the pair could "hold their heads up high" for a brave showing.

MAWOYO RESCUES ZIM

GODFREY KOTI
Tinotenda Mawoyo scored 82 runs in the one off Coca Cola Test match against Pakistan at Queens in Bulawayo. The hosts were 245 for four at the close of play on Day one.
The hosts began their first innings account with their usual opening pair of Mawoyo and Vusimuzi Sibanda. Sibanda was the most aggressive of the two as he cleared the nine times for four in the first session before eventually being stumped by wicket keeper Adnan Akmal for a well crafted 45 off 66 deliveries. He departed in the 23rd over after failing to deal with a doosra from the bowling of off spinner Saeed Ajmal. The openers had a first wicket partnership of 71 runs.
Mawoyo was joined by Hamilton Masakadza whose body language lacked signs of confidence as he struggled to get off the mark. When he eventually got off to scoring runs, the record breaker did not trouble the scorers that much as he managed eleven off 48 deliveries. He went across the line attempting to go after a turning Akmal delivery but missed the ball completely and had his middle stump knocked off.
The captain Brendon Taylor stepped up to the crease joining Mawoyo who was trading carefully through the visitors’ attack. Talyor showed glimpses of brilliance clearing the boundary two times for with well timed drives before falling cheaply to a Ajmal ball. He was trapped leg before wicket after he had offered no shot at all leaving the umpire with not much of a choice but to signal his exit , he had scored ten runs in twelve deliveries.
It was former skipper Tatenda Taibu and Mawoyo who steadied the Zimbabwean ship after that crumble of the top order. Their fourth wicket partnership yielded 65 runs off 148 balls with seven fours, six of those came courtesy of Taibu. The pint size wicket keeper eventually fell for 44 runs off 70 deliveries, he had attempted the square cut shot but was let down by his poor foot movement leaving the score on 176 for four.
Ervine came in at five and played a supporting role to Mawoyo who managed to get his fifty off the 52nd over. Ervine ended the day 38 from 80 balls after playing amazing pedal sweep shots and a couple of drives both on the on and off side.
The pick of the Pakistani bowlers was Ajmal who picked up three wickets for 75 runs in 29 overs and had six maidens. Khan who conceded 37 runs after bowling sixteen overs picked up one important wicket of Taibu.
At the close of play Zimbabwe were 245 for the loss of four wickets with Mawoyo and Ervine at the crease at 82 and 38 runs respectively. Play resumes today at 10 am.

TAIT TO PLAY FOR RHINOS

Australian fast bowler Shuan Tait, is set to add to his tally of Twenty20 teams after agreeing terms with Zimbabwean domestic franchise Mid West Rhinos. Tait will play for Rhinos during Zimbabwe's domestic Twenty20 competition in late November this year.

Tait, who signed up to play for the Melbourne Renegades in Australia's Big Bash League six weeks ago and will also represent Dolphins, the Durban-based South African franchise, for the Pro20 competition early next year, said he hoped his Zimbabwe stint would help boost his match fitness ahead of his Big Bash outing.

''That's the thing with Twenty20 tournaments, you've got to pick which ones are at the right time to keep your match fitness up, and rest in between,'' he said. ''It's just [before] the Big Bash, so it's perfect timing.''

The dates for Zimbabwe's fortnight-long Twenty20 tournament have not been finalised but it is expected that the competition will be completed by December 3, which will allow Tait to travel back to Melbourne well in time to prepare for the Big Bash.

Tait retired from Tests in 2008 and quit ODIs too following Australia's exit in the quarter-final stage of the 2011 World Cup. He then represented Rajasthan Royals in the IPL this year, grabbing six wickets in four games. He was forced to turn down a deal with Surrey earlier this year due to an elbow injury sustained during the IPL. His Zimbabwe deal was set up by his former teammate Jason Gillespie, who has also re-signed as coach of Rhinos.

''The way it's going I'm just going to play [Twenty20] tournaments," Tait, who is still available to play Twenty20 cricket for Australia, said. "If clubs are keen to sign me, that's great. I've become sort of a freelance Twenty20 player.''

METH LOSES TEETH

Keegan Meth was withdrawn from the final UCB ODI match between Zimbabwe and
Bangladesh at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, on Sunday. He sustained a mouth
injury off the last ball of the Bangladesh innings when he had a direct ball
blow straight onto his mouth after Nasir Hossain played a shot back to him.

Meth lost three upper row teeth on impact and a laceration of his lower
lip. The doctor on call at the venue attended to the Meth's lower lip wound
which was sutured at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo where he was attended
to by a dentist.

The extent of the damage on Meth's jaws and mouth can only be ascertained
after X ray examination and the dentist's report tomorrow. "Due to the
extent of the injury we had to rush him [Meth] to the hospital. He will have
to go for X-Rays tomorrow to establish the nature of the dental injury. He
will require some orthodentistry for the three teeth and any other possible
injuries that might have ensued from the impact," said Zimbabwe National
team physiotherapist, Amato Machikicho.

Keegan was able to join the rest of the team during Zimbabwe's innings and
also partook in the celebrations thereafter.

-ENDS-

For further information visit www.zimcricket.org or contact:


Jeffrey Murimbechi
Media Manager

Zimbabwe Cricket
address: 43 Victoria Drive, Highlands, post: P.O. Box 2739, Harare, Zimbabwe
tel: +263 (4) 705901,705903 , fax: +263 (4) 788094, mobile: +263 (712) 456
960

ZIM BREAK SIX YEAR DROUGHT

STANFORD JONI, HARARE
A crucial wicket by Tuskers bowler Chris Mpofu in the final over help to Zimbabwe clinch the UCB ODI series after beating Bangladesh in a nail biting encounter in Harare yesterday. Zimbabwe now lead three nil and this is their first series win in five years.
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field. Zimbabwe opened with Captain Brandon Taylor and Vusi Sibanda amid an overcast sky. The visitors were off to a busy start as they quickly removed Taylor off the bowling of Shafiul Islam. He was caught at first slip by Junzed Siddique after failing to deal with the morning movement of the new ball; he had faced 20 balls and did not do much to trouble the scores as was on four runs.
Vusi Sibanda soon followed after contributing 27, he was caught by Imrul Kayes off the bowling Rubel Hossain. Hamilton Masakadza was then joined by Tatenda Taibu and the two were left at the crease to e control the damage as Zimbabwe had crumbled to 39 for 2 in the 14th over. They had an amazing 143 run partnership. They batted with easy and showed great composure with a high level of maturity being evident in the two veterans. Masakadza however departed after making 73 runs after facing 100 balls after being bowled by Hossain .
After being dropped at mid wicket, at the covers and behind by wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim ,Taibu went on to make 83 runs of 103 balls and eventually went out off the bowling of Nazmul Hossain. He was caught by Hossain deep on the leg-side after attempting a pull shot in the 46th over .
The hard hitting Elton Chigumbura came in with a whooping display of two sixes and one four and he made a comfortable 31 off 21 balls before he was caught by Hossain again on the leg side off the bowling of captain Shakib Al Hasssan.
Bangladesh restricted to 250 for seven. Ruebel Hossain was the pick of the bowlers getting two wickets for 41 runs while Nazmul and Mamadullah picked up a one wicket each.
Bangladesh seemed to have finally learned from the lessons of matches past and the Zimbabwe innings earlier and decided not to go for broke upfront. With Brian Vitori and Kyle Jarvis opening the bowling, the Bangladesh openers were even more watchful and put on their best partnership of the series. Vitori did not get the same movement he did in the first two ODIs and was seen off carefully and even the pace of Jarvis was dealt with in composed fashion.
Vitori was taken off after a short spell of three overs and replaced by Chris Mpofu. Tamim Iqbal's first attacking shot came off Mpofu, a blistering stroke that was creamed past mid-off. He followed it up with two cracking shots through the covers, showing glimpses of the prowess that he is so well known for. Imrul Kayes acted as a foil to Tamim, absorbing the pressure and letting it off only slightly to rotate strike. He survived one close lbw shout off Prosper Utseya but when the second one came, Imrul was given his marching orders.
Junaid Siddique made his first appearance in the series on a precarious note, getting an outside edge for four. He didn't look entirely in control in his brief time at the crease, lofting a length delivery to the boundary off Mpofu with some circumspection. He departed after pushing a tossed up ball straight back to Utseya, who was rewarded for flighting it.
With Utseya the only frontline tweaker in the attack, Brendan Taylor had a tricky task of managing his four seamers and brought Vitori back in the 18th over, with Chigumbura bowling at the other end. Although Vitori did not get a wicket in his first seven overs, he was difficult to get away. Chigumbura struggled against the right/left combination of Tamim and Mushfiqur Rahim at first, but soon found his rhythm.
Zimbabwe edged ahead at the halfway stage when Tamim was run out by Mpofu after attempting a second while chancing the fast-bowlers arm. Tamim was without his bat, which he dropped midway and failed to make his ground.
The two sides clash in two more dead rubber in the city of kings on Friday and Sunday to round off the series.

SHAKIB SPEAKS OUT ON MENTAL TOUGHNESS

GODFREY C. KOTI, HARARE
BANGLADESH captain Shakib Al Hassan, blamed his misfiring batting line-up for his side's dismal show in Zimbabwe as they slumped to their second straight defeat in the five-match ODI series. His charges crumbled to an unconvincing 188, thought it was a recovery 58 for six. Zimbabwe reached the target in before the 45th over, losing just three wickets.
"We didn't perform well at all, especially our top five batsmen," Shakib said after the game. "Nobody scored runs. When you're playing an ODI game and the top five are not scoring any runs, it is hard for the team to come back and put a good total on the board."
The top-order collapse was a worryingly recurrent theme for the visitors, having slumped to 43 for 5 in the previous game. Shakib believed it was a mental issue, as opposed to a question of talent. "We have to ask everyone separately what's going through their mind," he said. "It has nothing to do with their technique, but their mindset."
"They are bowling well there's no doubt. But we are capable of handling this bowling … It will show how tough we are, if we can bounce back; otherwise we are not tough enough. We are not too soft to give up so easily."
That Bangladesh reached 188 was down to a strong rearguard from debutant Nasir Hossain, who made 63 batting at No. 8 - an effort that his captain appreciated. "He played very well, given it was his first game," Shakib said. "Normally there's pressure in that situation … when he got to bat we were 58 for 6. He played a good innings from that position. I hope he contributes [consistently], it was a special innings."
Zimbabwe have been the better team by far throughout the tour, starting with the one-off Test that they won in impressive fashion, despite Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal writing off their attack and terming the impressive Vitori "ordinary".
"I think you should ask the person who made this comment," Shakib said when asked for his take on the "ordinary" verdict. "I think they're well prepared and they're better than us in all three departments."
Vitori has been Bangladesh's bugbear since the first innings of the Test, even before Tamim made his comment, following up an impressive Test debut with an unprecedented brace of five-fors in his first two ODIs. No bowler had taken more than eight wickets in his first two ODIs before Vitori's feat, and his captain Brendan Taylor was effusive in praise.
"It is an amazing start," Taylor said after the game. "He is a new world-record holder. He is a great guy to work with, a very hungry cricketer.
"I am slightly surprised [by Bangladesh's collapses]. They bat to No. 7 but credit must go to the bowlers. We didn't give them many opportunities to score. Bowlers stuck to their guns after they got hit for boundaries."
Despite his side's dominance in the first two games, Taylor refused to take things lightly. "I remember in 2005 we were 2-0 up and then lost 3-2," he said. "We're not expecting a series win straight away. We know they will try to bounce back but we have to be a step ahead.
"Tuesday's a massive game. If we lose there it is 2-1 and Bangladesh have a chance to get back in the series. We'll go away tomorrow and regroup in a team meeting. There are not too many things we're concerned about. We will stay humble and when it comes game time, we want to be 100% up for it."

VITORI BREAKS WORLD RECORD

as Zim beat Bangladesh
GODFREY C. KOTI, HARARE
Brian Vitori became the first bowler in the world to grab two five wicket hauls in a row as Zimbabwe recorded their second win against Bangladesh; giving them comfortable a two nil series lead. Brian Vitori tore the Bangladesh line-up apart, with his second ODI five-for in his second appearance to for his country. Vusi Sibanda built the foundation for the chase, before Tatenda Taibu's half-century sealed the win.
The hosts have won both matches of the series so far and while still enjoying the lead, they have three more ODI matches to go.
On Friday Vitori became just the seventh bowler in history to take a five-wicket haul on one-day debut, and he followed that up on Sunday by taking five for 20 - the sixth best figures by a Zimbabwean bowler in ODIs, as Bangladesh were bowled out for 188.
Zimbabwe lost their captain Brendan Taylor early on in the chase after he had only contributed runs on the board. Vusi Sibanda followed up his 96 in the series opener on Friday with a steady 67, before Tatenda Taibu finished unbeaten on 61 from 74 balls as the hosts coasted home with almost six overs to spare.
The match was in many respects a reflection of Friday's clash, with Bangladesh's top order collapsing cheaply before the lower middle order pulled things back, and then Sibanda providing the spine of the successful reply.
Debutant Nasir Hossain was the hero for the tourists with the bat, rescuing his brittle side from 58 for six by making 63 from the number eight position.
Vitori had removed both Bangladeshi openers, while Chris Mpofu bounced out Mushfiqur Rahim after the wicketkeeper-batsman had been promoted to number three, leaving Bangladesh struggling on 26 for three.
Shahriar Nafees and Mohammad Ashraful attempted to take the patient approach to rebuilding, but the introduction of Elton Chigumbura put paid to their efforts as Nafees popped a slower delivery straight to cover and Ashraful edged behind.
When Prosper Utseya had Mahmudullah caught behind shortly afterwards the Tigers were 58 for six and in danger of being beaten by lunch.
Instead Nasir gave support to skipper Shakib Al Hasan as the duo put on 53 for the seventh wicket, with the debutant particularly harsh in putting away the short ball.
Vitori returned for an over to break the partnership as he trapped Shakib lbw for 26, but Bangladesh counter-attacked through Abdur Razzak as his 32-ball 35 added 75 to the score alongside Nasir.
Again it took Vitori to break through, as he returned for his final spell and had Nasir caught in the deep, then bowled Razzak with a peach of a delivery that hit the top of off stump.
With Rubel Hossain run out off the very next ball, Bangladesh were all out with 15 deliveries left unused and Vitori had the record for most wickets taken by a bowler in his first two one-day internationals.
The hosts brushed aside the early loss of their skipper thanks to a sturdy 83-run partnership between Sibanda and Hamilton Masakadza which took the score to 87 for one, before Masakadza failed to read Mahmudullah's delivery and was stumped for 38.
However any thoughts of a Bangladeshi revival were snuffed out by the arrival of Taibu, who calmly added 59 for the third wicket with Sibanda.
The opening batsman was in no great hurry due to the low required run-rate, taking 96 balls for his innings as he happily played second fiddle to Taibu.
Part-timer Mohammad Ashraful eventually got the better of Sibanda, but by that stage Zimbabwe were just 43 runs from victory and Craig Ervine gave Taibu the much needed support until the end.
Bangladesh fell apart at the seams as defeat neared, dropping a simple chance from Taibu and then helping him to fifty with seven runs from one delivery, when the batsmen ran three and then collected four overthrows.

VITORI SHINES AS ZIM WIN FIRST ODI

GODFREY KOTI, Harare

BRIAN VITORI ‘s five wicket haul and tight bowling by Chris Mpofu ensured another venomous attack by Zimbabwe as they walked past a touring Bangladesh side by four wickets at Harare.
It was another good result for the resurgent locals who have had lady luck singing on their side lately. The massive all round performance that was witnessed in the Test match has continued for the hosts bringing their competitive mojo right back into the days of Heath Streak and Andy Flower.

Captain Brendon Taylor won the toss and sent Bangladesh in to bat with Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes opening the batting for the visitors, while Chris Mpofu and Vittori got the new ball.

Zimbabwe made their victory intentions clear as early as the fifth over when Vusi Sibanda just missed out on a run out opportunity. Sibanda missed the stumps with Kayes nowhere near the crease eventually making it back safely. One ball later Vitori got his first wicket of the innings when Iqbal mistimed his shot and lofted it into the waiting hands of Elton Chigumbura at mid on. Iqbal made four runs after facing 18 balls leaving the visitors seven runs for one.

The impressive Vitori struck again in the eighth over when he bowled Shahriah Nafees who was on 14 after facing 29 deliveries. Vittori’s delivery was both quick and swung immensely to beat Nafees and uprooted his off stump deeping the Tigers of Bangladesh in all sorts of trouble at 28 for two.

Vitori struck for the third time in the 14th over when he forced Mohammad Ashraful to play a short ball and was caught at fine leg by Mpofu. Ashraful did not trouble the scorers much as he only managed two runs from seven balls before being dismissed by the man of the moment.

Vitori continued to entertain the on lookers on his debut making history as the first Zimbabwean to pick up five wickets on his first outing. He trapped Imrul Kayes leg before wicket. Kayes was on eleven runs from 22 balls when he failed to deal with the debutante’s accurate bowling that was coupled with great swing and pace.
Elton Chigumbura was brought in and immediately made an impact. He delivered a short ball that Mahmudullah failed to deal with eventually skiing it into the hands of Hamilton Masakadza at third-man. It was by no means an easy catch as Masakadza had to stretch forward on the run to collect. Mahmadullah was out for five from 15 deliveries.

Bangladesh was floundering on 43 for five and appeared increasingly desperate to get runs on the board. The Tigers almost lost another wicket in the 29th over, but wicket keeper Tatenda Taibu fumbled a stumping chance allowing Shakib Al Hasan to land back safely after failing to apprehend with a Utseya ball.

Shakib and Shuhrawardi Shuvo went on to build a 105-run sixth partnership as the hosts attack failed to penetrate. It took a bold decision by Taylor to make the difference. He brought in Masakadza to bowl and the part timer broke the partnership when he dismissed Shakib who was on 53 runs and cruising. Shakib attempted to drive a slower ball but only succeeded in carrying it to Utseya at mid off.

Utseya picked up his 100th ODI wicket in 128 matches when he dismissed Mushfiqur Rahim for 59 off 91 balls after the latter was caught at deep mid off by Masakadza. Ray Price got the wicket of Abdur Razzak in the 45th over the all-rounder was caught on leg side by Taylor after attempting to play the glance shot.

Zimbabwe came in to bat and lost a quick wicket after Taylor was bowled by Shakib with only 10 runs on the board. Shakib managed to get the ball to turn on the flat wicket to beat Taylor who had come forward to attack missing the ball and being bowled at off stump to leave Zimbabwe at 26 for one.

Sibanda and Masakadza had a 86-run third wicket partnership before Masakadza was run out for 41 from 58 deliveries. They managed to score a fairly quick 86 from 111 balls and were 112 for two when Masakadza departed. Taibu came in at four, but only lasted two balls before being bowled out by Rubel Hossain to leave Zimbabwe on 124 for three. One ball later, new man Craig Ervine followed Taibu to the pavilion as he was caught behind by wicket keeper, Mushfiqur Rahim.

Sibanda and new man Forster Mutizwa steadied the ship and their partnership yielded 51 runs off 72 balls before the former miscued a attempted pull shot to be caught by Mahmadullah off Rubel Islam’s bowling. It brought a sad end to a knock as Sibanda departed for 96 runs off 102 balls.

Chigumbura was needlessly dismissed when he was caught only 3 runs on the board. The former captain was caught by Tamim off a Rubel leaving the hosts needing three for victory.Mutizwa eventually won the match for Zimbabwe with a well crafted 29 runs off 53 balls. He seemed to be looking for the big shot and the opportunity presented itself in the 42nd over when he cut a short ball to the boundary to give the hosts a four wicket victory.


Vitori was named man of the match for his five wicket haul.

ZIM GETS DREAM TEST RETURN

BRENDON TAYLOR led Zimbabwe to their first Test victory after an absence of six years. They beat Bangladesh by 131 runs in Harare after putting up a splendid spirited all round performance.
The visitors won the toss and sent Zimbabwe in to bat and they made a first innings total of 370 all out. Hamilton Masakadza top scored with 104 off 244 deliveries while Vusi Sibanda and Brendon Taylor made 78 and 71 respectively. Opener Tino Mawoyo scored 43 runs on his debut after facing 76 balls with Tatenda Taibu chipping in with a valuable 23 runs and nothing much came from the rest of the team with the bat.
Bangladesh’s Hossain Rubel and captain Shakik Ul Hassan were the pick of the bowlers claiming three scalps each. Paceman Islam Rubiul posted figures of two wickets for 106 runs while top spinner Abdul Razzak and Mahmudulla picked up a wicket each.
The visitors were bowled for a 287 runs on day three inside 96.2 overs giving the hosts a lead of 83 runs on the second day. They had opened their batting with Tamim Iqbal and Imrun Kayes but they fell for 15 and 4 runs respectively in the first few overs of their innings. Mohammed Ashraful top scored with 73 runs while Shari Nafees and Shakib Ul Hassan managed half centuries.
Brian Vitori was the pick of the Zimbabwean bowlers as managed to post figures of four wickets for 66 runs. Chris Mpofu and Ray Price claimed to wickets each while Kyle Jarvis and former captain Elton Chigumbura managed a wicket each to conclude the Bangladesh innings.
Zimbabwe started batting their second innings on day three and lost three quick wickets ending the day on 92 runs for four wickets. Taylor(1 05) and Taibu (59) resumed on day four as they posted a fifth wicket stand of 113 runs. Zimbabwe went on to make 291 runs and declared leaving the visitors needing a massive 375 runs for victory.
Resuming from an overnight total of 112 for three on day five, Bangladesh failed to deal with the morning movement of the Harare Sports club wicket. They were bowled out for 244 in the 58th over with Iqbal and Razzak topped scored with 43 runs each while other meaningful contributions came from Kayes,Ashraful and Rahim handing Zimbabwe their dream test return.
Jarvis was the pick of the Zimbabwean bowlers in the second innings as he claimed four wickets for 61 runs while Mpofu was clinical with 3 wickets for 51 in 10 overs. The ever impressive Vitori picked one for 56 runs in 14 overs.
Bowling was so good that the seam bowlers picked up wickets with Vitori, Jarvis and Mpofu claiming fifteen wickets between them while Chigumbura managed four and Price pocketed two wickets. Batting was also impressive with Taylor top scoring with 176, Sibanda 116, Masakadza 110, Taibu 82 while Mawoyo managed 78 runs.
The Zimbabwean team had an exceptional all round performance and it was rather difficult for the commentators to figure out the man of the match. Taylor was named man of the match as he scored a total 176 and took two catches and believably for the fact that he was the architect brains behind the victory.

TAIBU'S CARELESS STATEMENTS

TATENDA TAIBU is one the most senior cricketers in Zimbabwe. A lot of people,particularly the young ones see him as a role model and much worse an inspiration. He has done well for himself he has a legacy to ride on now.
On the eve of Zimbabwe’s return to Test Cricket he made what could be called an ill-advised comment. He said that no progress had been made by the board and cricket was still as bad as before.
Now I am sure the young man feels he has only good intention when he says these things but I am inclined to believe that such a representation would fall short of the truth.
My problem is not with what he had to say. I mean what do I know? I am not directly affected by the current Ozias Bvute led Zimbabwe Cricket from were I stand now and I can’t say that my sources have no self-interest when they speak to me. No one wants to look like the bad guy.
However given the timing, Taibu loses the argument here. On the eve of our return to the highest level of cricket you do not say things of this nature. True or not, there are ways to do these things. My question is, why wait until now? If the situation has been this bad since last August, why choose the day before a moment of pride to trash everyone who is working towards trying to make the game respectable. I am sure that administration has its fair share of mediocrity but not now.
From a management perception point of view this is as they call it, a fail. No fair-minded person will think that any good can come from a statement of this sort from a current senior cricketer.
I like the young man but I am a bit disappointed to be frank. I will just say he was most definitely ill advised advice. Remember this might be true, no one really knows beesides those that are swallowed by the system but I think he miss fired this time around.

TESTING TIME FINALLY UPON US

UTSEYA OUT OF “THE SUPER ELEVEN”
HARARE
Zimbabwe returns to Test cricket today and launches its quest for international reckoning with a one off match against Bangladesh in Harare. The host have been voluntarily absent from the test arena for more than six years.
The match will be more of a historic event for the cricket enthusiasts across the divide. The selection panel has however thrown their last dice and concluded on the eleven men that will carry the country’s hopes. Opener Vusimuzi Sibanda will be expected to start the proceedings for the hosts with Mountaineers top order batsman Tinotenda Mawoyo while world record breaker Hamilton Masakadza, controversial Tatenda Taibu, Craig Ervine and Captain Brendon Taylor finish up the middle order.
Speaking to OFF THE CREASE in an exclusive interview last night Assistant coach Steve Mangongo said he was hopeful that his charges were going to deliver. “We have been working hard and we are ready for this match as you will know its history in the making for us and we would prefer to have a win to go with that” he said.
The former Mountaineers gaffer also said the team had gotten enough preparation from the recently ended South African and Australian A sides tour. “The batsmen were tested by the by some genuine bowling from the Australians and the South Africans as well. I am sure the batters are ready for the action” added Mangongo.
Talking about the bowling aspect of the game he said the bowlers who were preferred were Brian Vitori, Kyle Jarvis. The duo is expected to provide the much needed support to seasoned bowlers Chris Mpofu and Ray Price. “We need twenty wickets, it is my hope that experienced Price, Mpofu and two youngsters Jarvis and Vitori will provide us with just that” he said.
Former captain prosper Utseya was dropped as the technical team opted to go with one spinner and Price was their obvious choice as he is one of the most experienced campaigner. Utseya will have to endure the pain of watching the historic event from the terraces although he is one the players that featured for Zimbabwe in their last test outing.
Mangongo defended the selectors’ decision saying the wicket was going to a fast one hence the opted to go with three seamers. “The wicket is conducive for fast bowlers, its a little greener so it would have made sense for us to go with an extra seamer instead of a spinner” he said.
The technical team also chose Elton Chigumbura to play the role of the sole all rounder. The talented Chigumbura who seems to have been regaining his form will be expected to beef up both the batting and bowling aspects of the team.
He also noted that Taibu’s media showcase had not affected the mood in the camp. “Morale is definitely high in the camp although we had a bit of issues that came out in the media yesterday. We are ready to give our all regardless of these petty issues” said a confidant Mangongo
First Eleven: B.Taylor; V.Sibanda; T. Mawoyo; H.Masakadza; T.Taibu; C.Ervine; E.Chigumbura; R.Price; B.Vitori; K.Jarvis; C.Mpofu

TAIBU ATTACKS ZIM CRICKET ADMINISTRATION

The Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) executive has been exposed by one of its trusted recruits for maladministration. Revelations by former test captain Tatenda Taibu in an extra ordinary press conference yesterday are likely to send tremors in ZC boardrooms.

Just at a crucial press conference that marks the return from a self imposed test censure amid a celebratory atmosphere Taibu spilled the beans when he lashed out at the Ozias Bvute led administration for not implementing good governance and structural professionalism.
The former skipper said nothing has changed from years of turmoil that rocked the country’s cricket administration six years ago adding that players were playing without contracts since last year August.
The former skipper, who took over captaincy from Heath Streak amid protest from a band of 15 senior players in 2003 that torched fires of discord and eventually rendered the country international isolation, also said young players in the current squad, may not speak for fear of victimisation.
ZC, which was dragged into chaos six years ago following a string of negative developments that range from player rebellion to a politicised sport, seemed to have turned a corner when they got the green light to return to play test coupled with the return of former players who had gone on exodus during trying times.
ZC executive has in the past six years been thrown under serous scrutiny over its pedigree to administer and has sometimes been attacked for failing to run the organisation professionally.
"But, lately, there has been general optimism from cricket faithfuls in the country on the future of the game basing on positive developments in recent years but Taibu poured water.
"I don't think much has changed really, the administration is still struggling to run cricket in the country well," Taibu said candidly. "For example, the guys haven't been paid their match fees from August last year up to now. At the moment, I am sitting here without a contract, no one has got a contract; those are all things that the administration is struggling to deal with."
"The franchise system has all along been thought to be able to contract and pay players, the issue of central contracts has never been clarified or resolved. All players who play for Zimbabwe must be contracted to a franchise, which means they earn some form of income, but Taibu indicated that may just be a form of bandaging a wound that really needs surgery. "When you walk around and you see a house that's painted well, you will think that house is really standing strong but if does not have a strong foundation, it will fall down one day or another," he said. "Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has just painted a house that's about to fall.
"Taibu who earlier on this year turned down an offer to captain the misfiring team said the players had tried to seek certainty from ZC but he had kept his distance from the subject because of his reputation as a pot-stirrer. "It's hard for me as a player with the history that I've got in Zimbabwe cricket to go up and mention these things," he said. "We've tried to go through the right structures, the captain and the manager but nothing has been done to date."
Taibu decided to break his silence to the media yesterday and said he was not afraid of the repercussions. Instead, he felt it was his responsibility, as one of the senior men in the side, to be the mouthpiece for some of the juniors. "I like telling the truth, I know most of the other guys are scared of being targeted and they won't be able to come out and say it in the open but I am not scared of being targeted. I think it's important that I can stand up for the younger guys who don't have a voice."
Taibu explained that it was the patriotism and passion in the ranks, and that he is proud to be involved with men of such character. "I can't falter the coaching staff, they've worked really hard and I can't falter the guys. They come in day in and day out but they are not getting much support from the administration unfortunately," he said. "To see the guys running in and bowling and hitting a lot of balls in the nets it really shows that the guys have got the country at heart. It is two days before a Test match and no one has got a contract, no one knows what we will get paid, but the guys love their country and they can't see cricket drop like that.
Zimbabwe cricket may be in turmoil but there is also pride and the return to the game's premier format is something the players are cherishing. "It will be sad to see Zimbabwe cricket die, after all the people that have worked hard for us to get Test cricket back, I think it will be a waste if we let it die."
Taibu believes the game is still very much alive and the upcoming Test matches, against Bangladesh, Pakistan and New Zealand, will only help cricket thrive in spite of its structures. "When you play Test cricket, you improve faster," he said. "As a batsman you spend more time at the crease, as a bowler you learn how to get people out, how to be disciplined and when to attack and when not to.
Captain Brendon Taylor who could neither confirm nor deny the alleged maladministration said his team was not affected by the anything as their biggest target was that of returning to test cricket. “We will not be affected by any of this, I am pretty sure the guys are professional enough to put such issues aside for now”

ZIM TEST SQUAD ANNOUNCED

BANGLADESH ARRIVE IN ZIM

The Bangladesh cricket team arrived last night for one test match and five One Day internationals to be played in Harare and Bulawayo starting next week.

 The Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan said the weather conditions were going to play a major part in their quest for victory. If they win, the victory will be their first on Zimbabwean soil. In an exclusive interview with OFF THE CREASE upon their arrival at the Harare International Airport, he said they hoped to adapt to the Zimbabwean weather conditions as soon as possible. He said it was important for them to do so if they were to entertain any chances of winning.

“The weather will be a factor and since we will be playing a practice game I am hoping the boys will adapt to the Zimbabwean weather conditions as soon as possible, hopefully before the first Test,” he said.  “Since we haven’t played test cricket in 14 months and we haven’t played in Zimbabwe in close to a year and half it will be important for us to understand what the weather has in store for us.”

Responding to a question on Bangladesh’s chances against the host, Al Hasan said there was a lot at stake for both sides considering both teams have been absent from the Test arena for some time. Zimbabwe has been out for six years while the visitors have missed the action for only a year and two months. “We haven’t played Test for fourteen month we had quite a break, it won’t be easy for any of the teams but we are obviously here to win it, we have prepared enough and I am sure Zimbabwe has been working really hard so its game on for us ” he said.

He also noted that the he had faith in his seam attack to be led by the less experienced Shafiul Islam .”The conditions here don’t favor spin that much so the fast bowlers will have to prove themselves and I can assure you I have faith in my seamers” he said.

Bangladesh team:Shakib Al Hasan (capt), Tamim Iqbal (vc), Imrul Kayes, Junaid Siddique, Mohammad Ashraful, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Abdur Razzak, Shafiul Islam, Rubel Hossain, Nazmul Hossain, Shahriar Nafees, Robiul Islam, Shuvagoto Hom, Nasir Hossain.
Reserves: Naeem Islam, Suhrawadi Shuvo, Alok Kopali, Syed Rasel, Sahagir Hossain

ZIM BOWLERS FACE THE WRATH OF AUSSIE BATSMEN

…as Australia take charge on Day Two

By LAWRENCE TRUSIDA

 Zimbabwe XI resumed from an overnight total of 250 for five to 300 all out in a four day match against Australia A in Harare. The visitors, who are leading the series one nil bowled out the host and went in to bat closing day two on 282 for no loss.

The odds turned around on the Zimbabwe XI team when Australia’s bowling attack led by the ever enterprising Peter Siddle tore them apart. Day one had ended good for the hosts as they seemed to be in control with their 250 for five, captain Brendon Taylor had top scored with 85 while Hamilton Masakadza had played a well crafted innings of 64 runs.

Regis Chakabva and Raymond Price were at the crease when play resumed, it must be noted however that the wonder boy of the first match Elton Chigumbura who had scored a century did not do much to trouble the scorers. The bottom order followed their former skipper as they only managed to add only fifty runs to their overnight total.

The tenacious Siddle wrecked the middle and lower order with the new ball eventually retaining impressive figures of four wickets for 45 runs. Trent Copeland and Luke Butterworth provided the much needed support claiming two scalps each.

The hard hitting David Warner nicknamed ‘Cannon’   hit 150 runs from 235 balls, he was ably supported by fellow opener Aaron Finch who was also unbeaten on 122 runs as the Australians took control at the close of play. They posted a first wicket stand of 282 leaving them trailing by a mere  18 runs to Zimbabwe’s total.

Warner’s knock included 17 fours and 2 huge sixes and he was supported by Finch who contributed 122 runs as the hosts could not find a way through a batting side had answers to their short pitched deliveries.

None of the bowlers were in the fighting groove as the usually reliable Christopher Mpofu was guilty of giving away too many short balls. It however must be said that he failed to find his mark although he was easily the peak of the bowlers. He conceded 46 runs after bowling 15 overs and one maiden.

On his return to international cricket Kyle Jarvis found the going tough. He had spent more than a year in the doldrums; he was expected to do better as he is arguably the fastest bowler currently.  Jarvis who was playing his game in England for Essex’s second stringers the past county season gave away 57 runs in 10 0vers accumulating an economy rate of above five.

BANGLADESH NAME TOURING SQUAD TO ZIM

..as the tour receives mixed feelings world over...

The Bangladesh cricket board announced a fifteen man squad to tour the southern African republic cricketing nation, Zimbabwe. The two teams are set to square up in a one off Test match in Zimbabwe’s beginning of next month.

Critics have been quoted as saying this tour was a waste of resources from the mother body the ICC. A very reliable source from the ICC administration told OFF The CREASE how they saw this battle as a potential thriller. “ I think the best cricket will be played in Zimbabwe, because the visitors are looking at getting their confidence back while the hosts will be trying to reclaim their stake in world cricket” said the source who preferred to remain anonymous.

“These two countries have been dubbed the whipping boys of international cricket but I think we will be proved wrong, it has happened before and I think Bangladesh in particular mean business” added the source. “From my limited understanding I hear Zimbabwe have been working hard although their display recently in one day cricket leaves a lot to be desired” he said

Some sectors in the cricketing world believe it is a waste of resources. Another source from England who also preferred to comment on the grounds of anonymity said there wasn’t much to expect from these two teams.” It’s definitely a waste of time, if I may ask who stands to benefit. The players, the TV crews or the Cricket Union of Zimbabwe and Bangla (Bangladesh) Board? Lets be realistic, no one in those teams has what it takes to play Test cricket” said the source.

Back home, most are looking forward to a thriller and will be hoping to see Zimbabwe get back to Test cricket in style. “Its on, I want to see Zimbabwe doing well and I know they will do good and make us proud” said a staunch supporter of the Brendon Taylor led Zimbabwe team, Stacey Kelly.

Zimbabwe are currently taking on the Australian A side in Harare and have displayed some great composure both on the ball and bat with Vusi Sibanda leading from the front while Tino Mawoyo, Elton Chigumbura, Brian Vitori are playing the much needed support in all departments.

Meanwhile ninteen year-old Nasir Hossain,  earned his first call-up to the Bangladesh side after the BCB announced a 15-member squad for the Zimbabwe tour. Mohammad Ashraful has been preferred over Raqibul Hasan in the squad, which also includes another uncapped player Shuvagoto Hom.

The announcement came two days after BCB chief Mustafa Kamal received the names of the selected players from chief selector Akram Khan, who had called for a change in the process which allows the board's technical committee to discuss the selectors' choices.

Considered for the ODI series alongside Shuvagoto, Nasir is being propped up for a role in the lower middle-order, according to Akram, while Shuvagoto will be tested at the No. 4 position, a spot that has been Bangladesh's scourge.

"Nasir has a bright future and we have picked him and Shuvagoto for the ODI series," Akram said. "I think he is far ahead of all the other good allrounders and we have considered him for his positive frame of mind."

Predictably, Ashraful and Junaid Siddique made comebacks, though both played Bangladesh's previous Test match in England last year. Ashraful showed poor form during the 2011 World Cup and was dropped for the Australia ODIs in April. "We considered both Ashraful and Raqibul for the same position and I think Ashraful won the spot for his experience and some good knocks in South Africa (for Bangladesh A earlier this year)," Akram said.

The squad will be led by Shakib Al Hasan, with Tamim Iqbal as vice-captain. Former captain and fast bowler Mashrafe Mortaza, who had another knee surgery in May, is undergoing rehabilitation and continues to miss out.

Bangladesh are visiting Zimbabwe for one Test and five ODIs. The tour starts with a three-day game against a Zimbabwe XI from July 30.

Squad: Shakib Al Hasan (capt), Tamim Iqbal (vc), Imrul Kayes, Junaid Siddique, Mohammad Ashraful, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Abdur Razzak, Shafiul Islam, Rubel Hossain, Nazmul Hossain, Shahriar Nafees, Robiul Islam, Shuvagoto Hom, Nasir Hossain

AUSTRALIA GAIN GROUND ON DAY THREE

Zimbabwe XI trail Australia ‘A’ by 75 runs at the close of play on day three of a four day match played at Country Club in Harare on Sunday. Australia made a first innings 209 run lead after chasing down a target of 206 set by the home side.

Australia continued with magnificent batting spell were Phillip Hughes made 125 runs off 204 deliveries while captain Tim Paine came two runs short of a century off 161 balls. Cullum Ferguson played aggressively to produce 56 runs off 86 balls before failing to deal with a Malcolm Waller delivery, eventually making his way to back to the pavilion. Notable contributions came from opener David Warner who managed 48 runs and Tim Copeland who chipped in with a valuable 32.

The pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe on day three was Brian Vitori who claimed four scalps after conceding 86 runs in 22 overs. Tendai Chatara played a supportive roll as he picked up two wickets for 93 at an economy rate of 4.8 while the former captain Elton Chigumbura managed two wickets for 96 runs. Tuskers’ all-rounder Keegan Meth and Waller claimed a wicket each concluding the Australian innings on a total of 439 all out.

Zimbabwe had lost three wickets at the close of play with Tino Mawoyo and Vusi Sibanda failing to surpass the forty run mark. Wicketkeeper Regis Chakabva fell to a Jason Krejza delivery on 40 off 79, leaving Zimbabwe on 134 runs. Masakadza and Meth were at the crease at the close of play on 31 and 14 runs respectively.

A MICROSCOPIC VIEW OF THE TRI SERIES

 @Zim Cricket

Chris Bobby Mpofu in action earlier on in his career                  

The Coca Cola Tri Series came and it’s gone although it is one we would like to erase from our so ever quickly, there is a few positives we drew from it. There were however top cricketers who did not really rise to the occasion even though the we failed to produce the desired result as a team. So let’s take a closer look at how the individuals’ players did this series.

1) BEST BOWLER

Prosper Utseya, He took 9 wickets to be the top Wicket taker so far (Equal with Australia's Hastings). His performances were made even sweater as large sections of the fans didn't see him as a wicket taker; in fact, many don't wish to see him in the test side, but he seems to have answered these doubters.

2) BEST BATSMAN

Regis Chakabva, He is the highest scoring Zimbabwean bat of the series with 142 runs. These runs were scored at an average of 35.5 and despite his failure in the first match, he came back to be our most consistent bat. He also showed a great ability to read the game-he was able to play slowly and score runs when all around him were losing their wickets and he was able to score fast in the last game against SAA, where a bonus point was required for progression to the final. What he needs to do now is reach his potential, where he scores 40s and 30s, Taibu was scoring 50s and 70s.

3) DISAPPOINTING BOWLER

Ray Price, he went for runs and failed to pick up a wicket, leaving the more pessimistic to ask if his age has caught up with him. If we'd gotten in the final and Ray was fit, he probably would have gotten a bagful. He's still a top bowler despite the disappointing few games.

4) DISAPPOINTING BATSMAN

No, it's not Elton Chigumbura, it's Craig Ervine- He's ultimately to blame for both our losses against South Africa A. A few runs from him in the middle order-as is reasonable to expect, and we would have won. Unfortunately all he did was dither and fail-innings after innings. He needs to pick his game up again otherwise when guys like Taibu, Duffin and Mawoyo come back, he would be the man to make way (Well, such would be the case if selectors were little bit considerate).

5) MOST PERPLEXING PLAYER

 Elton Chigumbura. While any other player (well, most of them-it is the ZC we're talking about here) would have been dropped for such poor/dodgy performances with bat and ball, Elton's hung in there despite 3 series' poor performances so, it would be fair to congratulate him for not only his resilience, but his influence-how else could he be managing to stay in the team? Better players like Hamilton and similar players like Chibhabha have been dropped yet he stays in there. But, it's not all doom and gloom and it's largely not his fault. He began to improve his bowling-in fact; it got better with every game! So, surely he can get in the team on his bowling alone? NOPE! Chatara, Vitori, Mushange, Nicholson etc are better bowlers and would give us better 10 overs. So to warrant a place in the team Elton has to be the ALLROUNDER-he has to bat well. Which he's still failing to do, something which was compounded by his golden duck in the last game against the Proteas second stringers where a few runs would have helped us get across the finish line, and bag the bonus point, he could even have taken his time and played himself in-we were quite ahead of the run rate, yet he went out to slog and got bowled.The general belief is that he has too much experience and skill for such mediocrity.

6) (PLEASANT) SURPRISE PACKAGE

 Brian Vitalis Vitori. He should have been in from the start after his performances in the practice games. GIVE HIM MORE GAMES!

7) MOST CONSISTANT PLAYER

Chris Mpofu, Give the man a medal. He's turned into a premier seamer! If we only had a replica “Magwegwe Express” to open the bowling from both ends we would certainly be a different team wouldn’t we be?...

The analysis was a well magnified look at the events and performances done in conjunction with one of our biggest followers and friends on our facebook page, Cricket Zimbabwe.

AUSTRALIA CLINCH TRI SERIES

Australia A won the closely contested Coca Cola Tri series final against South Africa A yesterday in Harare. A high powered 206 run first wicket partnership ensured they prevailed over their opponents by six wickets.

Australia won the toss and elected to bat, posting a total of 294 runs for the loss of five wickets. The opening pair of David Warner and Test specialist Phillip Hughes made sure the innings had a healthy backbone as it posted a total 206 runs. Hughes top scored with 138 runs after facing the same number of deliveries before he was bowled by Veron Philander while Warner fell to Reolof van De Merwe for 120 runs off 127 deliveries.

John Hastings was promoted up the ladder but that move however back fired as he also fell victim to Van De Merwe for just two runs so did Mitch Marsh who managed only five runs. Aaron Finch managed to score twenty runs off thirteen deliveries with Tim Paine and Luke Butterworth remaining not out to conclude the Australian Innings.

Van De Merwe was the pick of the South African bowlers with figures of three for 58 while Rusty Theron and Philander picked up a wicket each.

Jacques Rudolph started the proceedings for the South Africans with a well crafted 90 runs off 97 balls while his opening partner Jonathan Vandiar only made 16 runs. The top order failed to put a meaningful score with Rudolph running out of partners, Vaughn van Jaarsveld came in at five and provided the much needed stability in the middle of the Proteas batting order. Their fifth wicket partnership yielded 53 runs, just as they were starting to trouble the Australian attack Marsh provided the breakthrough at the 25^th over.

The South African lower order did not do much to trouble the scorers. Notable scores came from Philander who made 22 runs off 35 deliveries while Roory Kleinveldt provided what was arguably the furthest six of the tournament off the bowling off Marsh eventually making 32 runs off just 19 deliveries. The match was pretty much concluded here with Theron and Alexandra failing to take the series home with just seven runs required.  

The bowling was topped by all rounder Marsh who retained figures of four wickets for 56 runs with Lyon picking up three scalps for 55 runs. Lyon was named the man of the series after he picked up a total of eleven wickets for 183 runs in five matches while Rudolph was the top run scorer. 




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