Aussie young gun struck by bouncer then dismissed in shaky start
Cooper Connolly managed to shake off a vicious short ball in Australia’s final ODI against Zimbabwe at Harare after he was struck on the helmet by Blessing Muzarabani’s delivery.
In the 12th over of Australia’s chase of 272, Connolly had moved to 21 before Muzarabani sent down a bouncer the left-hander couldn’t avoid.
Cooper Connolly is struck by a bouncer. Fox Cricket
“This is a definite change of pace, a change of intent ... a sensationally directed bouncer,” Darlington Matambanadzo said on Fox Cricket’s coverage.
The replay showed Connolly had been hit on the grill of the helmet, sparking concussion protocols.
A long break ensued as Connolly was assessed before he resumed his innings.
The left-hander was then dismissed the next over by Graeme Cremer off a beautiful leg-spinner which turned sharply into the stumps to put Australia at 3-77.
Connolly joined Mitch Marsh (8) and Travis Head (6) in the dugout to make for average reading from the away side’s top order.
Earlier, Zimbabwe’s captain, Sikandar Raza, hit 81 not out off 72 balls to help his side post a total of 8-271.
The Australians were helped by the fact Zimbabwe No.3 Innocent Kaia had to retire hurt on 55 after injuring his knee while running.
Craig Ervine also scored 59 for Zimbabwe. Nathan Ellis was the best of the bowlers, taking 3-50.
