Masakadza ton keeps Zimbabwe afloat

Hamilton Masakadza's fifth Test century helped Zimbabwe recover from a disappointing start to the second Test against Windies on Sunday and end a rain-hit first day on 169 for 4.

Only 61 overs were bowled at the Queens Sports club in Bulawayo as rain wiped out most of the final session. Despite that, Masakadza had enough time to score an unbeaten 101 and get Zimbabwe out of trouble.

The host was struggling at 14 for 3 after winning the toss and opting to bat, as the pace duo of Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel struck with the new ball.

Making the most of overcast conditions, Roach struck in the second over as he had Solomon Mire caught behind, and Craig Ervine and Brendan Taylor soon followed when they were bowled by Gabriel and Roach respectively.

It helped that Peter Moor, who was only a last-minute pick as Sean Williams, the allrounder, withdrew due of illness, combined with Masakazda to revive the innings.

Moor associated for a 142-run stand for the fourth wicket with Masakadza, putting Zimbabwe back in a match that they must win to level the series.

Masakadza was lucky to earn a reprieve when he was caught at gully off Gabriel in the 11th over of the day, before replays revealed a no-ball.

While Moor reached a patient half-century moments after tea, he was then bowled by Roston Chase, the offspinner, to give Windies a much-needed breakthrough.

Masakadza went to three figures soon after, reaching his fifth Test century more than 16 years after recording his first one on debut against the same opponents.