SportsPosted at: Jun 30 2025 9:24PM


Mulder century, Maharaj fifty power Proteas ahead

Bulawayo, June 30 (UNI) Wiaan Mulder struck a masterful 147 and Keshav Maharaj chipped in with a brisk half-century as South Africa extended their dominance over Zimbabwe on Day 3 of the first Test, setting the hosts a mammoth target of 537 at Queens Sports Club here today.
Resuming from 49 for 1, South Africa's second innings was anchored by Mulder, whose career-best effort propelled them to a commanding 369. Zimbabwe, in reply, finished the day at 32 for 1, still needing 505 runs for an improbable victory.
Mulder was the cornerstone of South Africa's batting effort, sharing vital partnerships despite Zimbabwe's early strikes. Tony de Zorzi departed early for 31, edging Tanaka Chivanga to the slips, but Mulder found support in David Bedingham, with the duo adding 72 brisk runs. Bedingham struck a six before falling for 38, and though South Africa briefly stumbled to 155 for 5, Mulder kept the scoreboard moving.
Unfazed by the quick dismissals of Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Dewald Brevis, Mulder reached his hundred with a boundary off Chivanga just before lunch, and stitched a century stand with Kyle Verreynne in the second session. He eventually fell for 147, caught at deep midwicket off Wessly Madhevere, narrowly missing out on a 150.
Keshav Maharaj, leading in Temba Bavuma’s absence, then took charge with a 51-run cameo, supported by Corbin Bosch. Their partnership added crucial runs before Maharaj and Bosch fell to Wellington Masakadza, who ended with figures of 4 for 98. Blessing Muzarabani, who missed most of the day due to illness, returned late to claim the final wicket as South Africa posted a daunting 369.
Zimbabwe’s openers Takudzwanashe Kaitano and Prince Masvaure survived a probing evening spell, showing resistance against the new ball. However, Kaitano fell in the final over of the day, edging Bosch to the slips after a gritty 12, leaving the home side at 32 for 1 at stumps.
With 504 runs still to chase and nine wickets in hand, Zimbabwe face an uphill task heading into Day 4 against the reigning World Test Champions.
Brief Scores:
South Africa 418/9 decl & 369 (Wiaan Mulder 147, Keshav Maharaj 51; Wellington Masakadza 4-98)
Zimbabwe 251 & 32/1 (Takudzwanashe Kaitano 12; Corbin Bosch 1-1)
South Africa lead by 504 runs.
UNI BDN BM
Tags: #Mulder century# Maharaj fifty power Proteas ahead
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