Image Credit: MidnightMusinng on X

 Bulawayo – South Africa opened their Test series against Zimbabwe with a statement win, thrashing the hosts by 328 runs in Bulawayo. It was a match to remember for all-rounder Corbin Bosch and newly promoted top order allrounder Wiaan Mulder — the former scoring a century and taking five wickets, while the latter anchored the second innings with a classy 147 and picking up 4 wickets in the first innings.

A Confident Start from the Proteas

South Africa dominated from the outset, piling up 418 for 9 declared in the first innings. Debutant Lhuan‑dre Pretorius stole the early headlines with a sublime 153, while Bosch’s unbeaten 100 added firepower down the order.

Zimbabwe's reply was steady but not enough — they managed just 251 in their first innings, trailing by 167.

In the second innings, it was Wiaan Mulder’s turn to shine. He crafted a fluent 147, mixing patience with power, and found support from captain Keshav Maharaj, who added a valuable 51. South Africa declared again, setting Zimbabwe a massive 537-run target.

Bosch Delivers the Knockout Punch

Already a centurion, Corbin Bosch returned with the ball and blew through Zimbabwe’s batting with a fiery five-wicket haul. His all-round performance — 100* and 5 wickets — sealed the deal for South Africa and made him an instant hero.

Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 208 on Day 4, never really looking in contention during the chase.

Young Guns Impress, Captain Pleased

Stand-in skipper Keshav Maharaj, filling in for Temba Bavuma, was all praise for the young team. From Dewald Brevis to Bosch to Pretorius, the newer faces brought energy and impact. Debutant Codi Yusuf impressed with three wickets in each innings, but his efforts were somewhat overshadowed by standout performances from fellow debutants and the all-round brilliance of Wiaan Mulder. 

“These guys are hungry to perform,” Maharaj said. “Bosch was outstanding, and Mulder just keeps growing with every game.”

Zimbabwe Batting Woes

Zimbabwe once again struggled with the bat in the second innings. While Craig Ervine (49) and Wellington Masakadza (57) showed some resistance, their efforts were far from enough to chase down South Africa's daunting lead.

On to the Second Test

South Africa takes a 1–0 lead in the two-match series. The second and final Test begins on July 6, again in Bulawayo. With confidence sky-high and momentum on their side, the Proteas will be eyeing a clean sweep.

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