South Africa set Zimbabwe a mammoth target of 537 runs for victory in their second innings – and the hosts are already one wicket down.

The visitors were bowled out for 369 in their second innings on Monday, thanks largely to a career-best 147 from all-rounder Wiaan Mulder. Captain Keshav Maharaj chipped in with a valuable 51, while fast bowler Corbin Bosch and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne each added 36 runs.

Kyle Verreynne and Wiaan Mulder. Photo: Zimbabwe Cricket

Wellington Masakadza – the brother of former University of the Free State player Hamilton Masakadza – was the pick of the Zimbabwean bowlers, finishing with figures of 4/98. Tanaka Chivanga returned 2/76 from his 16 overs, while leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa, who bowled Lhuan-dré Pretorius and Dewald Brevis for 4 and 3 respectively, ended with 2/117 in 23 overs.

Zimbabwe will resume on Tuesday on 32/1, after losing the wicket of opener Takudzwanashe Kaitano, who was caught by Pretorius off the bowling of Bosch for 12 in the 19th over. The dismissal brought the day’s play to a close, with Prince Masvaure unbeaten on 5. South Africa also conceded 15 extras.

Speaking after the day’s play, Mulder said he’s happy to continue batting at number three for the Proteas, and is willing to play any role the team requires.

“Shukri Conrad has had this view, since I broke my finger, that the team is best balanced with me at number three,” said Mulder.

“The important thing is that when the three big quicks return, my role as a bowler becomes less important. To be honest, I just want to contribute wherever I can. Playing for South Africa has always been my dream, and it still is. If that means batting at three, I’ll do my best to stay in the team.”

Looking ahead to day four, Mulder said the key will be to strike early, particularly as Zimbabwe’s experienced middle-order, featuring captain Craig Ervine and Sean Williams, poses a serious threat.

Sean Williams and Craig Ervine. Photo: Zimbabwe Cricket

“The important thing will be how we come out fighting on Tuesday. One big partnership can take the game away from you quickly. We’ve seen teams scoring at around four an over on this wicket,” he added.

“If we don’t strike early, it’s going to be a long day. But the upside is that there’ll be new batters at the crease and with the ball moving a lot in the mornings, it’ll be tough for them to settle.”

Play resumes at 10:00 on Tuesday morning with Zimbabwe on 32 for 1, still needing 505 runs to win.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg