South Africa were give a fair run for their paycheck today as a spirited Zimbabwe got within 62 runs of the 339 target set by South Africa in their opening World Cup clash. An even greater surprise of the day was the fact that AB de Villiers was actually dismissed, and for a relatively piddly score (25)!
The Proteas got off to a troubling start with the Zimbabwean bowlers having South Africa at 4 for 83 at one point and managing to keep it relatively tight up until the last 10 overs. Alas the staple came loose from the stomach surgery at that point as they allowed South Africa to score an incredible 146 runs from the last 10 overs. David Miller (138 not out) and JP Duminy (115 not out) starred for the Proteas and put on a world record fifth-wicket stand of 256.
The Zimbabweans started the chase confidently and always looked in the hunt with opener Chamu Chibhabha (64), Hamilton Masakadza (80) and Brendan Taylor (40) showing they were all capable of taking on some of the world’s best bowlers.
Zimbabwe looked set to take on the big total as they cruised to 3 for 214 coming into the the final 15 overs. Alas Taylor’s wicket shortly after was the start of a quick rot that saw them bowled out for 277 in 48.2 overs.
This certainly puts a warning shot out for the Zimbabweans though and it’ll be interesting to see if they can topple some of the bigger name teams who are showing middling form at the moment. England I’m looking at you.
