MIDDLE order batsman Ryan Burl and fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani made their Test debut for Zimbabwe in the historic four-day, day/night pink ball match against South Africa at St George’s Park in Port Elizabeth on Tuesday.

Burl, a left- handed batsman who bats in the middle order and also bowls leg spin had already appeared nine times for Zimbabwe in One Day Internationals having made his debut at the beginning of the year against Afghanistan at Harare Sports Club.

Muzarabani, a 21-year old tall seamer was given his first ever appearance in the international game as Zimbabwe coach Heath Streak opted against recalling Tendai Chatara to the prolonged version of the game.

Opener Chamunorwa Chibhabha was rewarded for the half century he scored in the warm up match in Paarl with a return to the team. With Regis Chakabva dropped, Brendan Taylor was given the added responsibility to keep wicket.

AB de Villiers is leading the Proteas in the absence of Faf du Plessis who is sick. Experienced pace bowler Dale Steyn who played for the South Africa Invitation XI against Zimbabwe was also left out due to illness.

At tea on the opening day, South Africa, who won the toss and chose to bat were on 96 for two in 30 overs. They had lost the wicket of Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla.

Teams

South Africa: Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Cock(wicketkeeper), AB de Villiers (captain), Dean Elgar, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Andile Phehlukwayo, Vernon Philander, Kagiso Rabada

Zimbabwe:  Ryan Burl, Chamunorwa Chibhabha, Graeme Cremer, Craig Ervine, Kyle Jarvis, Hamilton Masakadza, Peter Moor, Christopher Mpofu, Blessing Muzarabani, Sikandar Raza, Brendan Taylor(wicketkeeper).

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