The 70-run partnership for the third wicket between Dawson and Hamilton Masakadza (32) was the most meaningful contribution from the home side’s batsmen. Mountaineers closed day two at 142/5 and scored just 87 more runs to finish their first innings with 229, giving the Eagles a lead of 38 runs. Dawson was the star of the show, scoring an unbeaten 110 from 229 deliveries. His prolific innings featured eleven fours and two sixes.

The Mash Eagles second innings was quite disappointing as they depended on Foster Mutizwa’s form. There were no other major contributions apart from a well-played knock from Sikandar Raza.  Mutizwa top-scored with 83 from 141 deliveries, Raza adding 74 from 104 balls. The Eagles succumbed to the Dawson’s left-arm orthodox, which rewarded him handsomely with seven wickets for 51 in 18.2 overs. The visitors finished their second innings with a 251-run lead after scoring 212.

Mountaineers are under no immediate pressure and can patiently reach 251 with ease. Tinotenda Mawoyo and Bernard Mlambo finished the remaining four overs of the day without scoring.