South Africa declared their first innings on 418/9 overnight, with debutant Lhuan-dré Pretorius top-scoring with a superb 153. Fast bowler Corbin Bosch, playing in just his second Test, once again impressed with the bat by scoring his maiden Test century. 

Bosch remained unbeaten on 100 off 124 balls. In his debut Test against Pakistan in January, he scored 81* – meaning he has yet to be dismissed in Test cricket. As a result, his average currently stands at an incredible 181.

Dewald Brevis also made a bright start to his Test career, scoring a brisk 51 off 41 balls.

Corbin Bosch. Photo: Zimbabwe Cricket

On Sunday, Zimbabwe’s Sean Williams struck a defiant 137 – his sixth Test century – as the hosts were bowled out for 251 in their first innings. Williams hit 16 fours during his 164-ball stay at the crease. Captain Craig Ervine was the next best with a patient 36 off 90 deliveries, before he too was stumped by Kyle Verreynne off the bowling of Proteas skipper Keshav Maharaj.

All-rounder Wiaan Mulder led the South African attack with figures of 4/50, while debutant Codi Yusuf impressed with 3/42 in 14 overs. Maharaj chipped in with 3/70 from 16.3 overs.

Although teenager Kwena Maphaka didn’t pick up a wicket, he caught the eye with his raw pace and managed to strike two Zimbabwean batters on the helmet.

Sean Williams. Photo: Zimbabwe Cricket

When bad light brought an early end to play, the world champions were 49/1 in their second innings. Tanaka Chivanga made an immediate impact, striking with the second ball of the second over by having Matthew Breetzke caught for 1 by Wessly Madhevere, with the score on just one.

Speaking after the day’s play, Mulder – unbeaten on 25 – praised Codi Yusuf and predicted a bright future for the 27-year-old seamer who is his teammate at the Lions.

“I play with Codi at my domestic team, the Lions, back home, and I mean he’s been an inspiration for us. He literally bowls like that every single week. He’s exceptional. He’s got the biggest heart,” said Mulder.

“He never gives up, and I think what you saw today was just a glimpse of what we see week in and week out at the Lions.

“I think he’s going to become an exceptional bowler for South Africa, and I’m super happy for him. He’s one of those guys who doesn’t rely on shouting, sledging or fake aggression. He just gives everything he has, every single time.”

Play at Queens Sports Club resumes at 10:00 on Monday morning, with Tony de Zorzi and Mulder at the crease.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg