Tuskers and Rocks notch up victories as Logan Cup title race goes to the wire

ASHLEY DUBE 

HARARE – Tuskers secured a commanding 287-run victory over the Mega Market Mountaineers at Takashinga Cricket Club on Sunday. Pakistani paceman Mamoon Ur Riaz played a crucial role in the win, taking four wickets for 51 runs.

Image: Zimbabwe Cricket 

This win marked Tuskers' first Logan Cup victory of the season, dealing the Mountaineers their first defeat. Despite the loss, Mountaineers remain in second place on the points table.

After gaining a first-innings lead of 122, Tuskers comfortably reached 194 for two by the close of play on day three. On the final day, they accelerated their scoring, adding 146 runs in 16 overs before declaring at 340 for eight wickets.

The Mountaineers faced an imposing target of 463 runs for victory or needed to survive 57 overs for a draw. 

Initially struggling at 44 for five, they showed some resistance with Spencer Magodo scoring a fifty. However, solid bowling from Tuskers, led by Mamoon Ur Riaz, ultimately sealed the win as Mountaineers were bowled out for 175 in just 48 overs.

Tuskers can consider themselves fortunate to secure the win, as Mountaineers could have potentially salvaged a draw with more determined batting.

Rocks too strong for Rhinos

A dazzling performance by Roy Kaia with his unbeaten score of 80 guided Southern Rocks to a smooth six-wicket triumph over Rhinos before noon at the Old Hararians Sports Club last Sunday.

The Rocks were tasked with chasing down a target of 139 runs for victory, starting the day at six runs without loss from the previous evening.

Kaia, who didn't get a chance to bat the previous day (day 3), saw his partner Takudzwa Chataira, the night-watchman, depart early on Sunday after contributing eight runs. However, Kaia found valuable support from the English duo of Eddie Byrom (19) and Dom Bess (21).

Just before the decisive moment of victory, Johnathan Campbell fell for four. Kaia, in a spectacular fashion, dispatched Victor Chirwa for two boundaries in three deliveries to seal the win.

His unbeaten knock of 80 runs came off 87 balls in a two-hour display, including two sixes and 10 fours, showcasing his exceptional batting prowess on the field.

With this victory, Southern Rocks retained their lead at the summit of the Logan Cup standings. 

However, having completed their eight-match schedule, they now face an anxious wait to see if either Eagles or Mountaineers can surpass them in the final round of the tournament next week.