Ervine dazzles with big century as Tuskers knock over Mountaineers

Craig Ervine scored a dazzling century as Tuskers beat Mountaineers by 63 runs to keep their name in the running for a berth in the Zimbabwe Domestic T20 Competition final.

His 120 off just 54 balls was the highlight of a sunny afternoon at Old Hararians on Wednesday. He took on all bowlers, finding the boundary with blinding regularity. Ervine’s total had 12 fifties and five sixes.

Bright Phiri impressed with his 32 off 26, while Milton Shumba was an able assistant to Ervine with 17 off 9 balls.

206 for the loss of five wickets is what Tuskers made in the end.

Donald Tiripano took two for 46, Tendai Chatara one for 36 and Shingi Masakadza one for 41.

In response, the only resistance in the top and middle order was provided by first-ball opener Kevin Kasuza who made 46. The six batsmen who came after him all only made single figures, thanks to some tight bowling.

On the back end, Tiripano (17), Victor Nyauchi (15), Brighton Chipungu (16) as well Chatara’s unbeaten 17 were the late resistance before Mountaineers were bowled out for 143 19.5 overs.

Luke Jongwe took two for 16, Ainsnley Ndlovu two for 17, Sean Williams one for 12, Thabani Mboyi one for 18 and Charlton Tshuma one for 20.

As it stands, Tuskers know a victory against Rhinos on Thursday takes them into the final against Eagles on Friday. If they lose, they will need to keep an eye on that run-rate.