Madhevere, Tsiga Shine as Zimbabwe XI Take Lead

Runodada Witness

Zim Now Reporter

Half-centuries from Wessly Madhevere and Tafadzwa Tsiga lifted Zimbabwe XI to a commanding position on the second day of their four-day tour match against the Professional County Club Select XI at the Uptonsteel County Ground on Friday.

Zimbabwe XI resumed their innings on 38 for two in response to the home side’s 330, with Brian Bennett on nine and Sean Williams on 14. The pair showed composure and resilience as they put together a vital 127-run stand for the third wicket, stabilising the innings after an uncertain start. Bennett played fluently for his 65 off 100 balls before edging behind with the score at 144 for three.

Skipper Craig Ervine fell without scoring, but Williams continued to counterattack with intent. He struck a brisk 76 from 90 deliveries before being dismissed at 176 for five, leaving Zimbabwe XI in a delicate position.

That changed when Madhevere and Tsiga joined forces at the crease. The duo batted with confidence and control, adding 127 for the sixth wicket to steer Zimbabwe into a position of strength. Tsiga played a patient and composed innings of 66 off 132 balls, which included five fours and a six, before being stumped.

One fan, @sm Shahil c, praised the wicketkeeper-batter’s performance, commenting: “Tsiga have lot of patience alhamdulillah, and he is able hit aggressive shot. L have seen this multiple times, feel like he is multi talented guy.”

Madhevere continued to lead the charge, displaying flair and maturity. His innings of 93 from 152 deliveries was laced with 11 boundaries before he was dismissed lbw with the score on 365. Clive Madande was out for five, but lower-order contributions ensured Zimbabwe extended their advantage.

Wellington Masakadza remained unbeaten on 34, while Blessing Muzarabani added quick runs with a 13-ball 20, lifting Zimbabwe XI to 403 all out and earning them a first-innings lead of 73 runs by stumps on Day 2.

Mitchell Killeen led the attack for the County Select XI, finishing with figures of three for 52. Dan Mousley and Eddie Jack supported with two wickets each.

“Fifties from Wessly Madhevere and Tafadzwa Tsiga helped Zimbabwe XI recover from a tricky position and seize control on the second day of their tour match against the Professional County Club Select XI at the Uptonsteel County Ground in Leicester on Friday,” reads the statement.

The tour match is a key part of Zimbabwe's preparations for their historic one-off Test against England, which will take place from May 22 to 25 at Trent Bridge — their first Test on English soil since 2003.