Herath five-for decapitates Zimbabwe leaving them on the brink

Zimbabwe will go into day five of their test against Sri Lanka attempting to salvage pride after another horror day with the bat.

Craig Ervine's fighting half-century rescued Zimbabwe's innings PIC: Zimbabwe Cricket — Craig Ervine’s fighting half-century rescued Zimbabwe’s innings PIC: Zimbabwe Cricket

Rangana Herath grabbed five wickets to help himself to a ten victims in test match for the seventh time in his career and stretching his amazing year with the ball. He now has 51 wickets in this calendar year alone.

By the time the final session was done, Zimbabwe were doing all sorts of dances as both ends as Dilruwan Perera on the one end Herath on the other keen to finish the locals off before end of play.

The umpires called play off with Craig Ervine (65) and Donald Tiripano(0) relieved to get the chance to fight another day.

On 180/7 the score no longer matters. The hosts will get a fifth day, knowing that any time they get at the crease will feel like a quest for personal bests.

The pitch is doing all sorts of things. Zimbabwe captain Graeme Cremer grabbed three wickets earlier as the tourists declared on 258/9.