Ernest Masuku Shines as Zimbabwe 'A' Pulls Off Con...

Ernest Masuku Shines as Zimbabwe 'A' Pulls Off Consolation Win

Witness Runodada

Zim Now reporter

Zimbabwe 'A' finally found cause for celebration as they clinched a consolation win, thanks to a remarkable performance from Ernest Masuku, whose devastating seven-wicket haul demolished Scotland XI for just 85 runs in 20.3 overs.

Batting first after winning the toss against Bangladesh in the second Test in Chattogram, Zimbabwe made a cautious start. They reached lunch on day one at 89 for two wickets, with Nick Welch unbeaten on 32 and Sean Williams at the crease on six.

After the break, Zimbabwe's innings gained momentum as Welch and Williams built a crucial partnership. Their stand yielded 85 runs, with Welch reaching 53 and Williams matching him with a half-century. By tea, Zimbabwe had advanced to 161 for two, with both batsmen still standing strong , Welch on 54 and Williams on 55 — after a wicket-less second session that offered no breakthroughs for the Bangladesh bowlers.

However, the third session turned eventful. Nick Welch was forced to retire hurt after making 54, bringing skipper Craig Ervine to the middle to partner Sean Williams.

The loss of Welch unsettled Zimbabwe slightly, and the situation worsened soon after when Williams departed for a well-made 67. Zimbabwe then found themselves at 178 for four, struggling to maintain the earlier momentum.

Tonderai Machiridza commented, "The injuries to Welch and Williams soon after tea killed the momentum for Zimbabwe, but our bowlers (and maybe rain) will bring us back into this match tomorrow." His words reflected the shift in the game's energy.

By the end of the day's play, Zimbabwe had a total of 227 for nine, a score that may have seemed modest but was enough to put pressure on their opponents.

The real heroics came with the ball, where Ernest Masuku delivered a spellbinding performance. His brilliant seven-wicket haul completely dismantled the Scotland XI lineup, leaving them shell-shocked and bowled out for just 85.