ZIM vs SA Match Scorecard: South Africa started their two-Test series against Zimbabwe in emphatic fashion, claiming a massive 328-run victory in the first Test at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. Powered by centuries from Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Corbin Bosch, and Wiaan Mulder, and a fiery five-wicket haul from Bosch in the fourth innings, the Proteas stamped their authority and took a 1-0 lead in the series.
ZIM vs SA Match Summary:
- South Africa 1st Innings: 418/9 declared
- Zimbabwe 1st Innings: 251 all out
- South Africa 2nd Innings: 369 all out
- Zimbabwe 2nd Innings: 208 all out
- Result: South Africa won by 328 runs
South Africa’s Batting Blitz
Winning the toss and electing to bat, South Africa set the tone early with a dominant display. Young opener Lhuan-dre Pretorius stole the limelight with a blazing 153 off 160 balls, showcasing his class and intent on debut. He stitched key partnerships with fellow debutant Corbin Bosch, who remained unbeaten on 100 off 124 balls, to help the Proteas post a commanding 418/9 declared in the first innings.
In the second innings, it was Wiaan Mulder who lit up the scoreboard with a composed and calculated 147 off 206 deliveries, guiding South Africa to 369, further tightening the screws on Zimbabwe.
Bosch and Mulder Star With the Ball
South Africa’s dominance wasn’t just with the bat. In Zimbabwe’s first innings, Wiaan Mulder showcased his all-round prowess with a brilliant spell of 4/50, removing key middle-order batters. He was well supported by Codi Yusuf who chipped in with 3/42.
However, the final nail in Zimbabwe’s coffin was hammered by Corbin Bosch, who followed up his maiden Test century with a sensational 5/43 in the second innings, rattling Zimbabwe’s top and middle order.
Zimbabwe’s Lone Warriors
Despite the heavy defeat, Zimbabwe’s Sean Williams stood tall in the first innings with a gritty 137 off 164 balls, trying to anchor the chase. Wellington Masakadza also contributed with the bat in the second innings, scoring a fighting 57, and was Zimbabwe’s best bowler across both innings with combined figures of 6 wickets.
Craig Ervine, the experienced campaigner, chipped in with 36 and 49, but lacked support from the rest of the batting lineup to mount a serious challenge.
Venue & Toss
- Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
- Toss: South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first
What This Win Means
- South Africa take a 1-0 lead in the 2-match Test series
- The Proteas’ young talents – especially Pretorius and Bosch – announced their arrival in style
- Zimbabwe now face a must-win situation in the second Test to avoid a series defeat
