Barring an unfortunate run out and a couple of early wickets the good guys took the honours for the second day running. On a pitch with a resounding resemblance to a WACA surface, Mark Waugh batted beautifully, as did Stephen, in setting up a handy first innings lead. With five wickets still in hand we will be looking to extend our score as far from Zimbabwe's reach as we can when play resumes in the morning.

Losing 'Slats' and 'Blewy' early sent a few shivers through our changing room leaving 'Junior' and I with the task of working hard for the remainder of the first session. As with the WACA, it is always difficult for a batsman to get settled on such a bouncy strip of turf. When you 'get in' though there is no better place to play with the ball coming onto the bat evenly and at good pace. The twins showed this as they punished any loose bowling by the Zimbabweans who battled manfully all day.

It would be fair to say that their attack is steady with a number of medium pacers making up the bowling attack. Heath Streak and Henry Olonga add some pace to this outfit but otherwise they rely heavily upon a patient line and length from Strang, Whittall and Johnson. On such a good batting surface this was always going to work in our favour if we were able to remain equally as patient with the bat.

At stumps our captain and the master of Test cricket batting remains undefeated on 90. His consistency in this arena is simply outstanding. Once again he was as solid as oak, playing with the same ruthless intent in both attack and defence. He is as tough a competitor as there is playing the game and he is determined to continue his onslaught in the morning. With 'Heals' also looking for a big score and our tail due to wag we are all hopeful that tomorrow could be the day that puts Zimbabwe out of this contest.