Phehlukwayo, Klaasen fire but SA 'A' lose opening one-dayer to Zimbabwe XI

South Africa' A' lost the opening game of their three-match one-day series against a Zimbabwe XI on Monday.

The home side won by five runs, with their victory decided by Duckworth-Lewis-Stern after bad light stopped play with seven balls left in the match.

Captained by Heinrich Klaasen, SA 'A' 50 posted 273/7 in their allotted overs after losing the toss and having to bat first.

Andile Phehlukwayo top-scored with 87 off 93 deliveries (5x4s, 4x6s), while Klaasen scored 58 from 51 balls (4x4, 1x6).

Zimbabwe's Donald Tiripano was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4/57 in eight overs.

He claimed the dangerous South African top three, seeing off Theunis de Bruyn, Tony de Zorzi, and Reeza Hendricks for 32, 28 and 22.

He was also responsible for the eventual ending of Phehlukwayo and Klaasen's fifth-wicket partnership, which steered the visitors to their competitive total.

Tendai Chatara chipped in with 2/39.

The home team were not daunted by the target, even after losing openers Takudzwanashe Kaitano (0) and Kevin Kasuza (27) at the hands of Lizaad Williams (2/29) and Bjorn Fortuin (1/54).

Prince Masvaure and Wessley Madhevere knuckled down, scoring 49 and 34 to help steady the ship.

Sikandar Raza then played a captain's knock, top-scoring with a quick-fire 59 off 50 before Hendricks (2/24) struck with the first of his two wickets.

Milton Shumba added an obstinate and unbeaten 45 from 50 deliveries, ending the match with Tiripano, who was also unbeaten for 24.

The South African side had some injury and Covid-19 disruptions in the build-up to the game.

Lutho Sipamla was forced to return home after aggravating a left hamstring injury and will be replaced by Glenton Stuurman.

Ryan Rickelton was released from isolation on Monday and medically