By Trevor Makonyonga
The Zimbabwe Cricket team, Chevrons, put up a brilliant showcase on Day 1 of the first test which is being played at Harare Sports Club.
The opening partnership of Prince Masvaure and Kevin Kasuza managed to produce a fine start before Masvaure was dismissed for 55 by Lasith Embuldeniya.
Masvaure tried to lift the spinner above cover but was unfortunate as his ball remained low and Dimuth Kurunaratne pounced on an easy catch.
It was a big day for his opening partner and debutant Kevin Kasuza who hit a half-century and helped in setting up proper innings for Zimbabwe.
Kasuza fell for 63 after he misjudged a full toss from Lahiru Kumara which then trapped him leg before wicket.
Although the openers both got half centuries, it was their run rate that was disturbing as they went for under two runs an over for over 45 overs.
They also seemed to struggle against Lahiru Kumara who later claimed the scalp of Kasuza. Lahiru however, met with his fate when Craig Ervine pulled him away emphatically on a regular which forced his replacement.
After the dismissal of Masvaure Craig Ervine came to the crease. It was not long before Brandan Taylor joined him.
The two end off the day with Ervine on 55 and Taylor on 13 after 84 overs.
Off the pitch, fans seemed to be cricket starved as they came through in their numbers.
The Castle corner was the epitome of activity although all stands were highly active today. Yesterday as the entrance was free, today Monday will likely attract more school children and the numbers recorded on day one might be even bigger.
By the look of things, Zimbabwe can score more than 350 runs and they can possibly win this match.
The play has resumed at 10 am at Harare Sports Club today.
