Wiaan Mulder scored a brilliant 147 to lead South Africa to a dominant position against Zimbabwe in the first Test. On day three in Bulawayo, South Africa set a huge target of 537 for Zimbabwe to win. By the end of play, Zimbabwe had reached only 32 runs for one wicket, still needing 505 runs.
Takudzwanashe Kaitano was the only wicket to fall. He edged a delivery from Corbin Bosch to slip and made 12 runs. His partner, Prince Masvaure, remained unbeaten on 5 at stumps. Masvaure replaced Brian Bennett, who was ruled out due to concussion. He faced tough deliveries but survived close LBW shouts from young pacer Kwena Maphaka.
South Africa began the day at 49 for 1 and scored quickly before being bowled out for 369. Mulder anchored the innings and hit 147 off 206 balls, smashing his previous best of 105*. He was caught on the boundary trying to hit a six. Keshav Maharaj added a fast 51 runs to push the lead further.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled but had some success. Wellington Masakadza led the way with 4 wickets for 98 runs. Leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa took 2 wickets but conceded 117 runs. The pitch has started turning, which could challenge Zimbabwe’s batters in the final two days.
South Africa, playing with a changed squad, used only four players from their Test Championship win over Australia. The second and final Test of the series will also be played in Bulawayo and starts on Sunday.