ZCZC
BSP-09
CRICKET-AUS-ZIM
Mire’s 50 helps Zimbabwe reach 151 against Australia in T20
HARARE, July 6, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Zimbabwe batsman Solomon Mire notched his
second consecutive 50 to help the hosts reach 151 for 9 against Australia in
the Twenty-20 tri-series in Harare.
Zimbabwe chose to bat first in their final game of the series, but were
put under immediate pressure when opener Cephas Zhuwao edged the very first
delivery, bowled by Billy Stanlake, through to wicketkeeper Alex Carey.
Three overs later they lost captain Hamilton Masakadza, chopping Jhye
Richardson onto his own stumps immediately after hitting a six over deep fine
leg.
It was also six-and-out for Tarisai Musakanda, who lifted a pacy delivery
from Stanlake effortlessly over long on for six, then sliced the next
delivery he faced down to third man where debutant Jack Wildermuth held onto
a difficult catch.
With Musakanda’s dismissal, Zimbabwe were 44 for 3 at the end of the
Powerplay and in danger of sinking to a paltry score.
But, Mire remained, and he Peter Moor rebuilt the innings with a 64-run
fourth-wicket stand.
The pair were initially very patient, going seven overs without hitting a
boundary, before opening up with a flurry of boundaries off Marcus Stoinis’
medium pace and the spin of Ashton Agar. Moor fell for 30, chasing quick
runs, but Mire went on to bring up a 44-ball 50 in the 17th over.
Zimbabwe lost four wickets in two overs while charging at the death, with
Andrew Tye once again starring with the ball, but the hosts’ total will at
least give their bowlers something to defend.
Zimbabwe is already out of the series, with Australia to face Pakistan in
Sunday’s final.
BSS/AFP/SG/ARS/1648 hrs