Cricholic
📍 Overview
Mulder delivered a top-class century as South Africa strengthened their grip on the first Test against Zimbabwe on Day 3 in Bulawayo. His commanding 147, the best score of his Test career, alongside a brisk 51 from Keshav Maharaj, powered the Proteas to a second-innings total of 369. As a result, South Africa built a staggering 504-run lead. Zimbabwe ended the day at 32/1, facing an uphill task heading into Day 4.
🔹 Mulder Sets the Tone Early
The day began with South Africa resuming at 49/1. Wiaan Mulder and Tony de Zorzi batted confidently early on. They played out the first hour smoothly, building a promising partnership. However, Tanaka Chivanga found the edge of de Zorzi’s bat, ending the 63-run stand.
Despite the breakthrough, Mulder remained composed. He capitalized on anything loose while maintaining a solid defense. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, struggled due to the absence of their main pacer, Blessing Muzarabani, who was unwell.
🔥 Mulder and Bedingham Keep Scoreboard Ticking
With Chivanga operating as the sole pace threat, South Africa took advantage of the weakened attack. David Bedingham joined Mulder and started briskly, hitting a six off Wellington Masakadza. Shortly after, Mulder followed with one of his own. Consequently, the third-wicket partnership quickly added 72 runs before Bedingham fell pulling to deep midwicket.
⚠️ Middle-Order Stumble, But Marches On
Although South Africa looked in control, trouble followed soon after. Lhuan-dre Pretorius was bowled by a ripper from Vincent Masekesa, and Dewald Brevis also fell trying to play across the line. As a result, the visitors were reduced to 155/5. Yet, Mulder held firm and continued to rotate strike efficiently.
He brought up his century in style just before lunch, guiding one through the covers off Chivanga. Not only was it his second Test ton, but it also came at a crucial juncture for the Proteas.
💯 Mulder Reaches 147, Leads with Authority
After the lunch break, Mulder and Kyle Verreynne stitched together a vital stand. The two maintained good scoring tempo, punishing anything short or wide. Mulder even struck another six off Masekesa, underlining his dominance. Their 100-run partnership pushed the lead past 400.
Eventually, Mulder fell for 147, caught at deep midwicket off Wessly Madhevere. Verreynne’s stay also ended soon after, as he edged Masakadza to slip for 36.
⚡ Adds the Finishing Touch
Stand-in captain Keshav Maharaj delivered a perfect late-innings boost. Batting aggressively, he smashed seven boundaries and a six in his quickfire 51. Alongside Corbin Bosch, he helped stretch the lead beyond 500 before Tea.
However, after the interval, Masakadza bowled both Bosch and Maharaj. Muzarabani, who returned to the field late in the day, finally claimed a wicket by bowling Maphaka.
🧱 Zimbabwe Lose Kaitano Late
Chasing a monumental 537, Zimbabwe’s openers Takudzwanashe Kaitano and Prince Masvaure fought hard during the evening session. Although the South African bowlers applied relentless pressure, the pair held firm for 18 overs. Maharaj created a half-chance, and Tony de Zorzi dropped a tough opportunity at short leg.
Nevertheless, Zimbabwe couldn’t close the day without damage. In the final over, Kaitano edged Corbin Bosch and was caught behind, ending the day at 32/1.
📊 Brief Scores
South Africa: 418/9 decl. & 369 (Mulder 147, Maharaj 51; Masakadza 4-98)
Zimbabwe: 251 & 32/1 (Kaitano 12; Bosch 1-1)
South Africa lead by 504 runs
