Cricket: Zimbabwe face uphill task on final day

New Zealand reduce hosts to 61 for two, in pursuit of a mammoth 366-run target.

Hamilton Masakadza was dismissed in what was the fourth day’s final delivery as Zimbabwe were reduced to 61 for two, still needing another 305 runs to beat New Zealand in the only Test at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo.

Opener Tino Mawoyo was unbeaten on 29 and will continue his innings, partnering captain Brendon Taylor today. Earlier, New Zealand resumed their second-innings on 28 for two and were dismissed for 252 for an overall lead of 365.

Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor added 119 for the fourth wicket but Kyle Jarvis’ five-wicket haul ensured the tourists were dismissed for a below-par total.

New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori and Reece Young also contributed
valuable runs as the lower-order took New Zealand past the 250-run mark for a healthy lead that looks set to take them to victory on the final day.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 5^th,  2011.