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South Africa staged a remarkable turnaround on the opening day of the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, finishing at a commanding 418/9, thanks to debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius’s dazzling 153 and a maiden Test century from Corbin Bosch, who remained unbeaten on 100 at stumps.
Early collapse and nerves in the South African camp
The day began with Zimbabwe’s seamers exploiting the morning conditions to devastating effect. South Africa, having elected to bat, found themselves in dire straits at 23 for 3. Tanaka Chivanga was the chief destroyer, removing both openers Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke, while David Bedingham fell cheaply, leaving the Proteas reeling. The early wickets silenced the visiting dressing room and handed Zimbabwe the initiative in front of a lively home crowd.
Record-breaking debut for Lhuan-dre Pretorius
Enter 19-year-old Lhuan-dre Pretorius, playing his first Test. Displaying composure beyond his years, Pretorius counter-attacked from the outset, launching a six soon after arriving at the crease and peppering the off-side with crisp drives. He found a vital ally in fellow youngster Dewald Brevis, whose brisk 51 off 41 balls helped steady the innings after lunch. The pair’s positive approach blunted Zimbabwe’s momentum, allowing Pretorius to grow in confidence.
Pretorius’s innings was a blend of aggressive strokeplay and mature shot selection. He reached his maiden Test hundred in just 112 balls, becoming the youngest South African to score a century on debut at 19 years and 93 days. His eventual 153, laced with 20 fours and 4 sixes, not only rescued South Africa but also set a new benchmark for debutants from his country.
Corbin Bosch’s late-order heroics
After Pretorius’s dismissal at 289/7, South Africa still faced the threat of being restricted under 350. However, Corbin Bosch, batting at number eight, seized the moment. The 30-year-old all-rounder, playing just his second Test, built on the foundation with a calm yet assertive approach. He reached his half-century off 77 balls and accelerated as the day wore on, bringing up his maiden Test hundred in the final over before stumps.
Bosch’s unbeaten 100 off 124 balls, featuring 10 boundaries, provided the late impetus that pushed South Africa past the 400-run mark and left Zimbabwe’s bowlers exhausted after a long day in the field. His century was also his first in all professional cricket, underscoring the significance of the achievement.
Zimbabwe’s missed opportunities
Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Chivanga (4/83) and Blessing Muzarabani (2/59), started brightly but were unable to maintain pressure as the ball softened and conditions eased. The spinners, operating in tandem for long spells, were unable to break key partnerships, and a crucial dropped catch of Bosch on 2 proved costly.
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