Utseya gutted by loss after hat-trick

Zimbabwe spinner Prosper Utseya was pleased to become only the second player from his country to take an ODI hat-trick, against South Africa in Harare on Friday, but was disappointed to still end up on the losing side.
Zimbabwe spinner Prosper Utseya was pleased to become only the second player from his country to take an ODI hat-trick, against South Africa in Harare on Friday, but was disappointed to still end up on the losing side.
Utseya took five wickets as the Proteas' top order collapsed, and only a final wicket stand saw them record 231. But the visitors' bowling attack was too strong, and they won by 61 runs to negate Prosper's efforts.
Utseya, the Man of the Match, said afterwards: "I have mixed feelings. I'm happy that I managed to get the wickets and put my team in a strong position. Obviously I'm disappointed that we didn't win the game.
"Spin is one of our strengths, especially playing at home. We tend to prepare wickets that are slow and that turn. So we'll always try to play to our strengths when we're playing at home."
Utseya started his five-wicket run by bagging opener Hashim Amla for 66. Five runs later, he got his hat-trick as he removed Quinton de Kock for 76, and then Rilee Rossouw and David Miller.
He explained: "I just realised it was one of the key moments during the game, so I decided to go a little more on the attacking side because I could see that I was getting more assistance from the wicket and it was always going to be difficult for the guy coming in to bat.
"At the time I was bowling a lot slower because I knew that I was on top and I had, I think, four guys around the bat. So if, for example, you get someone out lbw he might have thought you were bowling it quicker but when the next guy comes in you bowl it slower.
"It also comes with experience: the more you play, the more you learn to vary your pace to your advantage, especially if you're on top.
"I just try and enjoy my cricket. Every time you go out there and play for your country, if you're enjoying it you tend to play better. With freedom."
Latest
-
News
Joe Root ready to have a ball in Sri Lanka
The England captain could find himself pressed into use as a third spinner with Moeen Ali in isolation.
-
News
Steve Smith debate has been “blown up” says England all-rounder Chris Woakes
The former Australia captain was filmed scratching at the batting crease while fielding against India.
-
News
Moeen Ali coronavirus quarantine extended after mild symptoms
The England all-rounder is now unlikely to feature in England’s Test series in Sri Lanka.
-
News
Australia go on the defensive over Steve Smith scuffing saga
Australia have closed ranks around Steve Smith, who is upset over being painted as a villain following the drawn third Test against India.
-
News
On This Day in 1996: Dickie Bird announces retirement from umpiring
Bird umpired in 66 Tests and 69 one-day internationals.
-
News
Dan Lawrence adamant he will stick to ‘unique’ batting technique in Test arena
The 23-year-old should make his Test debut when England start their two-match series against Sri Lanka.
-
News
Steve Smith criticised for appearing to scuff Rishabh Pant’s guard in third Test
Former Australia captain Steve Smith was branded “childish” after an incident during the final day of their drawn third Test against India
-
News
Tim Paine admits he let the Australian bowlers down
Australia captain Tim Paine believes he was at least partially to blame for his side failing to bowl India.
-
News
Testing times on tour in Sri Lanka – the life of an international cricketer
Gloucestershire’s James Bracey is on his first overseas tour with England. Here he writes about his experiences so far in Sri Lanka.
-
News
India salvage unlikely draw in third Test against Australia
India salvaged an unlikely draw as the third Test against Australia reached a thrilling finale.