[Match Thread] 1st 'A' Test (Zimbabwe v New Zealand)

[bayhaus]

It seems to have worked so far with NZA on 72/4 after 24 ov! Zim must not let the tail wag. If we get 1owkts by end of day we could actually win.

[Conant]

Unless I'm reading too much into it and the declaration was a directive from the team management to give the bowlers some more time in the middle

And doing well at it too: New Zaland now 84 for 4 in the second innings after tea

[maehara]

180/4 at the close, though, so they've let another pair settle.

[andybligz]

good to see chakabva making a ton, its fantastic knowing if taibu was injured we have someone like chakabva to replace him. also pynagara seems to be bowling well. we need him the squad for the world cup , i believe when hes fit he is the x factor we need as well as keegan meth. i cannot believe he was not selected for this match after making a 94 and taking 7 wickets in a match!

[maehara]

Sporting declaration from New Zealand, on 280/5 - that leaves Zim needing 342 to win, with 65 overs left in the day (5.26/over). Doable, just - will be interesting to see how much effort Zim make to chase it.

[brmtaylor.com admin]

Well so far you can't question the batsmen's intent: 0/40 after 6 overs at a run rate of 6.66. Mawoyo 19 off 16, S Marillier 17 off 22. Required run rate now 5.12.

I think this is a good move, there's not much to be gained out of a draw but a win would definitely send out a positive message about the direction of Zimbabwean cricket.

Chakabva coming out at number three would be a good aggressive move as well, we know he is capable of scoring very quickly and he's got some form behind him from the first innings.

[PSR]

A VERY QUICK & GOOD START

[CrimsonAvenger]

There is still a long way to go, but I love the intent shown here...

[maehara]

There is still a long way to go, but I love the intent shown here...

Yup. The win still isn't out of reach, and they're certainly making the effort. Wish Zim teams would play like this more often...

[bayhaus]

Tino gets his 100. He is very Hungry and I hope he keeps this form right through the season then they will HAVE to pick him.