KIMBERLEY, South Africa, Sept 30, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Zimbabwe crashed to 117
all out after being sent in to bat in the first one-day international against
South Africa at the Diamond Oval in Kimberley on Sunday.
Opening bowler Lungi Ngidi took three for 19 to lead a potent South
African bowling performance. It was Zimbabwe’s lowest total in 39 one-day
internationals between the two countries.
Stand-in South African captain JP Duminy’s decision to bowl paid off
almost immediately when Solomon Mire was caught at second slip off Ngidi
without scoring.
Although captain Hamilton Masakadza made 25 and Elton Chigumbura hit 27,
Zimbabwe were unable to put together any substantial partnerships as the
South African bowlers exploited a pitch of variable and occasionally steep
bounce.
Zimbabwe may have been unfortunate when Craig Ervine was the second
batsman out, given out caught behind off Wiaan Mulder for seven. Replays
suggested the ball may have missed his bat.
No decision review system is in place in this low-profile series.