The home side failed to capitalise on the small target of 202 set by Mountaineers. They fell short by 43 runs as the young right arm fast bowler Tendai Chatara collected four wickets for 21 runs off 22 overs in the second earnings, which spearheaded the Mutare based cricket franchises lead.
After Mountaineers settled for a lowly 202 runs lead in their first innings full days play, the odds were on the hosts to capitalise the match. However, the home side gave a shambolic batting display. Mark Mbofana gave an outstanding and spirited effort as he batted for 64 runs, only to run out of partners after they were all bowled out.
Eagles top batting order was characterised by a quick fall of wickets. Nic Compton mistimed a drive from Chatara that was caught at mid on, sending him to the dugout for 11 runs only. Simbarashe Gupo was soon on his way out for 23, after a brilliant take by Jonathan Beukes in the slips. He was followed by Peter Moor who fell off a leg before wicket (lbw) without bothering scorers.
Prince Masvaure and Andrew Hall defied the mountaineers bowling as they resolutely took the challenge to put their team back in the game. However, Masvaure finally departed after attempting to sweep Natsai Mushangwe lopping a catch to Johnson Marumisa. After Masvaures dismissal, the partnership of Mbofana and Innocent Chinyoka offered Eagles some hope of sneaking in a draw or even a victory.
However, Mountaineers was the better side, Chinyoka was finally dismissed by Mujaji for a defiant 9 runs spanning 68 deliveries.
Post published in: Cricket