Taylor century puts Zimbabwe in control on Day 1

BRENDAN Taylor struck his seventh Test century to put Zimbabwe in a commanding position on the opening day of the first Test against Afghanistan at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium yesterday, with the visitors closing on 326 for five.

Taylor scored a fluent 131 off 168 balls, hitting 14 fours and four sixes, to register his first Test century in eight years.

Captain Brian Bennett, leading Zimbabwe in the longest format for the first time, provided further impetus with an unbeaten 71, while Wessly Madhevere was not out on 29 as the pair guided Zimbabwe to a strong position at stumps.

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