ZIM vs WI: Twitter reacts as Gary Ballance smashes unbeaten ton on Zimbabwe Test debut
Day four of the first Test of the series between Zimbabwe and West Indies saw Gary Ballance score his maiden hundred for the hosts and a brave declaration by the Zimbabwe captain, Craig Ervine
After rain delays that turned into two interrupted days, and an action-packed, the fourth day of the first Test between Zimbabwe and West Indies was nothing short of spectacular.
Zimbabwe started the day three wickets down and the visitors wanted to put pressure in order to restrict the hosts to a mediocre total and gain a sizeable lead. West Indies won the first session and were able to chip away with four more wickets which left Zimbabwe in a lot of trouble.
Alzarri Joseph was key as he troubled the Zimbabwe batters in the morning session. He added to his one wicket on day three with two more in the first session of play. He was able to get the in-form opener Innocent Kaia and break a steady partnership. The Zimbabwe debutant Gary Ballance was still at the crease and looked solid from the get-go. He finished the morning session on 38* from 108 balls but did not find support from the other end.
The Zimbabwe batters showed great resilience in the second session and didn't lose any wickets and were able to chip away with 121 runs as well. Gary Ballance got the support he wanted and played some sublime shots and reach his maiden hundred for Zimbabwe in Test cricket. Brandon Mavuta, at the other end also got to his fifty.
West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder finally broke the partnership by bowling Mavuta out. Ballance was at his best again and was playing his shots. The Windies weren't taking any of the chances which did not help their cause. Craig Ervine made a bold and smart decision of declaring the innings even though they were 68 runs behind.
First Innings centurions Kraigg Braithwaite and Tangerine Chandrapaul arrived to the crease to avoid any hiccups and are still intact at the end of Day four. It would be interesting to see the West Indies' approach tomorrow morning and whether they will play out a draw or will look for an outright win.
Here's how Twitter reacted to another splendid day of cricket between Zimbabwe and West Indies : -
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