Zimbabwe’s cricketers on Tuesday put up a gritty display against the fast bowling battery of West Indies on the first day of their first test at the Harare Sports Club, securing 284-6 at close of play.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak saw his top order batsmen fail against the West Indies fast-bowling quartet of Corey Collymore, Fidel Edwards, Wavell Hinds and Jerome Taylor.
The Zimbabweans lost three wickets for 58 runs and were in trouble. Their most experienced batsman, Craig Wishart, steadied the team with a fighting 47 before two diminutive African batsmen entered the scene and frustrated West Indies.
Stuart Matsikenyere, making his test debut, showed confidence and skill beyond his experience, building up a forceful 57. Tatenda Taibu struck 75, his highest score in test cricket, and their partnership of 79 kept Zimbabwe in the game.
West Indies captain Brian Lara tried frequent bowling changes and concentrated on spin toward the end. But it all failed to dislodge Taibu and Streak, who resume on Wednesday in an effort to reach the 350 mark they still need to make a match of it.
Lara used nine bowlers overall. In fading light, he could not bring back his quick bowlers and instead used batsmen who could spin the ball.
Zimbabwe made a much better showing than expected. They have lost three of four matches so far between the two teams, with one draw.
West Indies fast bowler Jerome Taylor injured his back and may not resume tomorrow. – Sapa-AP