BENONI, South Africa,  (Reuters) – South Africa were  forced to toil hard ahead of their limited overs series against  England yesterday before overcoming Zimbabwe by 45 runs in a  one-day international.

Zimbabwe, chasing 296 for victory, were reduced to 48 for  five after South Africa had reached 295 for five from their 50  overs. Tatenda Taibu (103 not out) and Stuart Matsikenyeri (86)  then added 188 off 193 balls in a record sixth wicket  partnership against South Africa. The previous record of 124 was  set by Craig McMillan and Chris Harris for New Zealand in  Adelaide in the 1997/98 season. Taibu’s second century in 111 one-day internationals came in  the final over of the innings as he took Zimbabwe to 250 for  six. He struck six fours and three sixes off 112 deliveries. Matsikenyeri scored 86 from 87 deliveries with eight fours  and a six.

AB de Villiers scored a run-a-ball 51 and Albie Morkel  struck 50 not out from 39 balls in the South African innings.