New Zealanders warmed up with a massive 259-run win over Zimbabwe A in the only warm-up clash at the Harare Sports Club on Sunday (July 24) ahead of the first Test of the two-match series. Chasing 433 on the third and final day, Zimbabwe folded for 173 in 61.5 overs.
NEW ZEALAND TOUR OF ZIMBABWE, 2016
New Zealanders canter to massive win against Zimbabwe A
Zimbabwe A were bowled out for 173 in the second innings. © Cricbuzz
New Zealanders started the day on 154 for 4 but declared soon after on 201 for 7 with Kane Williamson retiring out on 49.
After the end of the second day, Mitchell Santner had acknowledged that the wicket had flattened out quite a bit and the bowlers had to work hard to earn wickets. However, there was little resistance from the Zimbabwe A batsmen as they capitulated under the scoreboard pressure with Tim Southee, Santner and Ish Sodhi picking up two wickets each.
Sean Williams, who last played a Test for Zimbabwe in August 2014, came up with an 86-ball 46 while Regis Chakabva held one end up with a 125-ball 48.
With no significant partnerships flourishing, New Zealanders managed to dominate the third consecutive day before wrapping things up. Both Williams and Chakabva are part of the Test squad that will take on the visitors in the first Test that starts on July 28 in Bulawayo.
Brief scores: New Zealand 345/7 ( & 201/7 (Mitchell Santner 51, Kane Williamson 49) beat Zimbabwe A 114 and 173 (Regis Chakabva 48, Sean Williams 46; Tim Southee 2-15) by 259 runs.
© Cricbuzz
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