Last Updated on 7 years by Charbel Coorey
The first Test represented missed opportunity for Zimbabwe.
There is absolutely no doubt they can’t wait for the 2nd Test to begin, so they can make things right. In Bulawayo, it was one bad day that cost them the Test, getting bowled out for 159, after sitting pretty at 91/1, in response to bowling the West Indies out for just 219 on day one.
The big question will be whether Zimbabwe can learn from their mistakes, and ensure that they practice good shot selection for long periods of time. Test Matches can’t be won in a day, but they can sure be lost in that same amount of time, as Zimbabwe found out.
For the West Indies, they will be really pleased with their performance. Coming to Zimbabwe, the key for them is building on the progress they made in England, and they played the patience game a lot better than Zimbabwe. Ultimately, that was the difference between the two sides.
What I’m wondering is how well the West Indies can back their first effort up. Jason Holder speaks about consistency, and if the Windies are to make strides in International Cricket, this is a game they need to win.
Key to a Zimbabwe win
Before the first Test, I spoke about Zimbabwe’s need to play from in front to win. Unfortunately, even though Zimbabwe held their own really well for most of the Test, that poor second day was extremely costly. As a result, they fell behind in the match and were never able to recover.
The talent is there for Zimbabwe, but the key is maintaining good discipline with both bat and ball for longer periods of time.
Key to a West Indies win
Win the patience game.
This helped the West Indies win the first Test, and they have the ability to do it again. Shai Hope, Kraigg Brathwaite and Raston Chase will be looking to build on their runs, and the bowlers, led by Devendra Bishoo will be looking to weigh Zimbabwe down again.
Stats & Facts:
- Shai Hope before the England tour had 372 runs at an average of 19.58. Since then, he has scored 509 runs at an average 84.83
- Devendra Bishoo needs two wickets to reach 100 Test wickets.
- Brendan Taylor has scored 453 runs in six Tests at Bulawayo
Prediction
I can see a different result in this game. Zimbabwe showed enough in the last game to suggest that if they can learn from their mistakes, they can certainly win.
Zimbabwe to level the series in a tight game.
