Zimbabwe beat South Africa by 29 runs

Zimbabwe posted 176-4 off 20 overs and restricted South Africa to 149 in 19.2 overs before a large crowd at home.

Unfortunately, the Harare tournament is unofficial so the result will not enter the record books, but the outcome can only boost Zimbabwean morale ahead of an ICC World Twenty20 clash between the countries on September 20 in Sri Lanka, Sport24 reports.

Zimbabwe players celebrate a wicket. Photo: AFP

Zimbabwe top the table halfway through the mini-league phase having defeated Bangladesh by 11 runs in the opening match last Sunday.

The Proteas' bowling and fielding left much to be desired against Bangladesh, they flopped in all departments against Zimbabwe with Colin Ingram (48) and opener Richard Levi (40) the only significant run contributors.

Bowler Wayne Parnell, who was dismal against Zimbabwe, fared better with 2-33 off three overs, but the attack never gained control over the Zimbabwean batsmen.

"We leaked 20 runs too many and did not build partnerships," admitted Proteas skipper Hashim Amla.

Zimbabwe's top-order batsmen Vusi Sibanda (58), Hamilton Masakadza (55) and captain Brendan Taylor (38) set up a competitive total on a wicket that has favoured sides batting first as it tends to slow as a game goes on.u00a0

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