- July 2, 2025
SA vs ZIM (1st Test) – Highlights
The first Test between Zimbabwe and South Africa at Bulawayo proved to be a dominant display by the visitors, who secured a comprehensive victory by 328 runs. South Africa’s strong batting and incisive bowling performance ensured they left Zimbabwe struggling throughout the match. The encounter showcased some fine individual performances, with Lhuan-dre Pretorius standing out as the player of the match for his commanding innings.
Winning the toss, the Proteas didn’t hesitate—they grabbed the willow and walked into the spotlight. Their innings got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets with Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke back in the pavilion cheaply. Pretorius’ brilliant innings of 153 off 160 balls, highlighted by 11 fours and 4 sixes, anchored the team’s total. His patient yet aggressive approach helped South Africa build a solid platform after the initial setbacks. Dewald Brevis contributed a quickfire 51, accelerating the run rate and allowing the team to declare at 418 for 9 after 90 overs.
Zimbabwe’s bowling attack was led by Tanaka Chivanga and Blessing Muzarabani, both of whom managed to pick up multiple wickets. Chivanga took four wickets, including the prized scalp of Pretorius, while Muzarabani picked up two crucial wickets. Despite their efforts, the home side was unable to contain the visitors’ batsmen, especially Pretorius, whose knock set the tone for South Africa’s commanding position.
In response, Zimbabwe struggled to match the intensity and quality of the South African bowling. The highlight of Zimbabwe’s first innings was Sean Williams’ impressive 137, standing out alone. His innings, built with patience and class, was the highlight of Zimbabwe’s batting, but the rest of the lineup faltered around him. Wiaan Mulder was the star with the ball for South Africa, claiming four wickets in Zimbabwe’s first innings, supported well by Keshav Maharaj and Codi Yusuf, who each chipped in with three and three wickets respectively.
South Africa’s second innings was again led by Wiaan Mulder, who produced a commanding 147 to further extend the visitors’ lead. His innings was characterized by solid technique and timely aggression. Kyle Verreynne and Keshav Maharaj also made useful contributions with scores in the 30s and 50s respectively. South Africa posted 369 runs before being all out, setting Zimbabwe a mammoth target of 537 runs to win.
Facing an enormous chase, Zimbabwe’s second innings once again lacked the firepower to challenge South Africa. Despite Masakadza’s patient 57, most batsmen found it difficult to build meaningful partnerships or accelerate the scoring. Corbin Bosch’s bowling was decisive in this innings, taking five wickets to dismantle the Zimbabwean batting lineup. Codi Yusuf also bowled well, taking three wickets to seal the fate of the home side. Zimbabwe were bowled out for 208, handing South Africa a well-earned victory by 328 runs.
South Africa vs Zimbabwe Scoreboard
South Africa – 418/9d & 369
Zimbabwe – (T: 537) 251 & 208
Result – South Africa won by 328 runs
Player of the Match – Lhuan-dre Pretorius
Lhuan-dre Pretorius
SA vs ZIM Playing XIs
South Africa | Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke, Wiaan Mulder, David Bedingham, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper), Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj (captain), Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka |
Zimbabwe | Brian Bennett, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Nick Welch, Sean Williams, Craig Ervine (captain), Wessly Madhevere, Prince Masvaure, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wicketkeeper), Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Blessing Muzarabani, Tanaka Chivanga |
Disclaimer: These Match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.
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