First test: Zimbabwe end day two with 32 run lead

Dogged stand between Malcolm Waller and Sikandar Raza adds 127 runs for the fourth wicket.

HARARE: Zimbabwe stood at 281 for the loss of seven wickets to boast a 32 run lead over Pakistan's first innings score of 249, at stumps on the second day of the first Test match between the two countries.

A 127-run stand between Malcolm Waller and Sikandar Raza for the fourth wicket epitomised a fighting innings from the hosts.

The day began with Pakistan losing their last wicket with no addition to their overnight score of 249. Saeed Ajmal, who needed just one run to score a fifty, had his stumps rattled by Chatara on the first ball he faced in the morning.

The hosts began their innings with a cautious start, but gradually gave way to a persistent Junaid Khan.

Khan kept asking questions of Zimbabwe's defensive play before both Mawoyo and Sibanda were caught-behind for scores of 13 and 31, respectively.

Ajmal then struck to remove Masakadza for 19 and leave Zimbabwe at 68 with three wickets down.

However, a resolute Raza and Waller stood firm and added 127 runs for the fourth wicket partnership to take Zimbabwe close to Pakistan's total.

Ajmal, who had not enjoyed much turn, managed to remove the pair. Waller, 70, edged one to the slip, while Raza, 60, was caught by Misbah at midwicket.

However, Elton Chigumbura added to Pakistan's headaches as he made sure the hosts managed to surpass Pakistan's total and post a a lead.

Ajmal took four while Rahat and Junaid bagged one and two wickets respectively.

Zimbabwe will resume their innings on Thursday at 281 with three wickets in hand and Elton Chigumbura unbeaten at 40.