Theron, two centurions sink Zimbabwe

South Africa wins by eight wickets, crushes Zimbabwe in second One-Day International.

POTCHEFSTROOM: Rusty Theron took five wickets while Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers hit centuries as South Africa crushed Zimbabwe by eight wickets in the second One-Day International (ODI).

Theron took five for 44 as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 268. Amla hit 110 and De Villiers remained unbeaten on 101 as the duo propelled South Africa to a series-clinching win with 11 overs to spare. Needing two to win, de Villiers, on 95, hit Brendan Taylor for six to raise his century and seal the series. Theron used clever variations of pace and length to claim five for 44 and take his haul of wickets to eight in his first two ODIs.

Zimbabwe’s innings saw Tatenda Taibu make 78 for Zimbabwe but none of his teammates was able to capitalise on reasonable starts on an easy-paced pitch. However, a formidable 268 looked modest as Amla and de Villiers took the bowlers to task and claim the easy win. AFP

Published in The Express Tribune, October 18^th, 2010.