Zim ‘A’ batter hits 158, ends up on losing side in 50-overs match
In a thrilling encounter, Zimbabwe A’s Antum Naqvi wrote his name in the record books by scoring an unbeaten 158, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to secure a win for his team. Naqvi’s remarkable innings was in vain as Scotland defended a massive total of 347, emerging victorious by just seven runs.
The unofficial 50-overs match, played on Saturday, witnessed a high-scoring thriller that kept the fans on the edge of their seats. Naqvi, a Belgium-born opener, played a solo hand, taking his team to a massive 346/7. His 158, comprising 14 fours and 7 sixes, is the highest score in any format for Zimbabwe A. The left-hander batted through the innings, putting on crucial partnerships with other batters to take the game deep.
However, Scotland’s seamers, led by Jasper Davidson, had other plans. The 24-year-old Davidson was the pick of the bowlers, returning figures of 7/49, including a hat-trick in the 48th over. His incredible spell helped Scotland defend the total and snatch a thrilling victory.
Scotland, who batted first, got off to a steady start, scoring 235/4 in 40 overs. However, a late collapse saw them lose 7 wickets for just 112 runs, leaving them with a total that seemed below par. Zimbabwe A’s bowlers, led by Carl Mumba, who took 2/54, and Tendai Chatara, who took 2/63, made good use of the conditions to restrict Scotland’s total.
In response, Zimbabwe A’s top order fell like dominoes, with only Naqvi and Brian Bennett (44) putting up any semblance of resistance. Despite Naqvi’s valiant effort, the chase proved to be too big, and Zimbabwe A fell 7 runs short of the target.
The match was a testament to the quality of cricket being played in the unofficial format, and the performances of both teams. Scotland’s seamers, led by Davidson, showed great character and resilience to defend the total, while Zimbabwe A’s Naqvi proved why he is one of the most exciting young batters in the country.
For Naqvi, the match was a personal milestone, and he will certainly take confidence from his record-breaking innings. “I’m thrilled to have scored my first century in any format for Zimbabwe A,” Naqvi said after the match. “It was a great team effort, and I’m disappointed that we couldn’t get over the line. Scotland’s seamers were outstanding, and they deserved the win.”
The match may have ended in defeat for Zimbabwe A, but it was a huge learning experience for the team. “We learned a lot from this match,” said Zimbabwe A coach, Ivano Ramoni. “We were outplayed by a good team, and we have to take that on the chin. We’ll work on our weaknesses and come back stronger in our next matches.”
The result may have gone in favor of Scotland, but Naqvi’s record-breaking innings will be remembered for a long time. It’s a testament to his talent and potential, and he will certainly be one to watch out for in the future.
