Ervine Century Gives Zimbabwe Win Over New Zealand

Craig Ervine made an unbeaten 130 as Zimbabwe posted a seven wicket victory over World Cup finalists New Zealand with six balls to spare in the first One Day International at Harare Sports Club.

Ervine and Masakadza during their partnership PIC: Zim Cricket

A Ross Taylor 112 had guided New Zealand to a mammoth 303 as Zimbabwe bled runs regularly and conceding 106 in the last 10 overs looked to have taken the Black Caps out of site.

Zimbabwe’s opening pair of Hamilton Masakadza and Chamu Chibhabha put on a solid opening of 74 before Nathan McCullum removed the latter for 42.

Ervine came in and together with Masakadza had a stand of 120 built on the foundation for the Chevrons.

Captain Elton Chigumbura the came on and made a 26 before losing his wicket trying to turn a big over into a huge over.

Man of the Match, Ervine then slowed down in his 90s as he searched for his maiden century but then started hitting over in an innings that 11 Fours and 5 sixes.

The six at the end of the 49th over put Zimbabwe within one run. A wide off the next ball meant Zimbabwe drew first blood in the Royal Stag Cricket Gear Cup in Harare.