Zimbabwe batter Innocent Kaia has been forced to retire hurt after reaching a half-century, cutting short what had been a promising innings for the southern African nation.

Kaia departed the field due to injury after passing the 50-run mark, unable to continue his knock. The setback will be a concern for Zimbabwe, who lost a key contributor at the crease at a potentially crucial stage of the match.

Retiring hurt is relatively uncommon at the top level of the game, and Kaia's exit will be closely watched, with his fitness likely to determine whether he is able to return to bat should Zimbabwe require further wickets to fall.