Taibu Ton In Vain As South Africa Overpower Zimbabwe

South Africa 295-5 beat Zimbabwe 250-6 by 45 runs

Tatenda Taibu scored a valiant century but it was not enough for Zimbabwe, who were overpowered by South Africa as they began their preparations for series against England with a 45-run victory in Taibu.

Debutant Ryan McLaren played a big part in South Africa asserting themselves on the match when, asked to chase 296 to win, Zimbabwe were reduced to 48 for five, the all-rounder having Justice Chibhaba trapped in front for 21 and Brendan Taylor (2) brilliantly caught by Mark Boucher.

Mark Vermeulen (8) was caught by Hashim Amla as left-armer Lonwabo Tsotsobe struck before Dale Steyn's express pace proved too much for Hamilton Masakadza (11) and Elton Chigumbura (4).

On the way to his second ODI century, Taibu put on 188 for the sixth wicket with Stuart Matsikenyeri and although the pair batted well, they were under too much pressure to push on and score quickly, Matsikenyeri's 86 going a long way to ensuring that at least Zimbabwe were not going to be embarrassed.

He became McLaren's third wicket when he was bowled, leaving Taibu unbeaten on 103 from 112 balls having hit six fours and three maximums with Graeme Cremer not out on one, McLaren claiming three for 51, Steyn two for 51 and Tsotsobe one for 41.

Half-centuries from Amla, AB de Villiers and Albie Morkel had earlier propelled South Africa to a winning score of 295 for five on a pitch that had plenty of bounce if not great pace in it.

Amla made 80 in 97 balls before the innings was given a lift by de Villiers, who made 51 in as many balls and Morkel, who thumped three sixes and three fours on his way to an unbeaten 50 in 37 deliveries.

Graeme Smith (35), Boucher (18) and Alviro Petersen (39) all made quick contributions to put the Zimbabweans on the back foot, despite three wickets from spinner Ray Price and one apiece for Chibhaba and Cremer.

The second and final match is on 10th November.