Matt Henry’s Recissive Five-Brankat set the tone for the command of New Zealand on the day of the start of the second test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo and overshadowed the very anticipated return of Brendan Taylor to the international cricker. Visitors bowed Zimbabwe in just 125 before reaching 174 at 1 at the end, while a fixed control of the competition.
On the surface offering a small reflection and just some early movement, Zimbabwe’s decision on the bat first fail quickly. Henry, the leading attack of New Zealand in the absence of several regular, declared 5 for 40, combined accuracy with a gentle movement of the seam to tear through the fragile bat set. The debutant Zakara Foulkes supported him 4 for 38, while colleagues newcomers Jacob Duffy and Matthew Fisher also bowed with discipline and purpose.
Brendan Taylor, Return to an international cricket At the age of 39 years after the suspension of three and a half years, he was thrown into an unknown role at the top of the order. He replied with calm, the highest score with 44 and looked the most useful of Zimbabwe’s dough. In an interview with Taylor before the match, he sincerely spoke of personal battles he overcame to return to the national party, and said, “Three years ago I couldn’t get out of bed. Now I’m back what I love – I introduce Zimbabwe.”
He detonated for nearly two and a half hours and looked for half a century before the incorrect shot ended his shifts. Henry bowed a slightly fuller van that Taylor sting on another cover where Mitchell Santner comfortably caught.
Problems with ZimbabWe tap were laid again. Only Taylor and Wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsig, who ended up undefeated at 33, achieved double figures over 11. The highest partnership was only 29 years and none of the recognized doughs could withstand the permanent accuracy of New Zealand for a long time.
In response that New Zealand’s openings gave the game to Zimbabwe before closing. Devon Conway and Will Young added 162 for the first goal – the third highest opening stand in New Zealand against Zimbabwe and their first partnership by more than 150 at the top of the order since 2022 has been settled Trevor Gwand for 74, cutting on its stumps, but Conway remained 79 along Nightwatchman (8*).
He excluded Tom Latham due to his shoulder injury, Santner Captain New Zealand for the second direct test. His bowling changes were in place, and three debut sailors met the faith of selectors with a disciplined display.
New Zealand, who has already led by 49 runs with nine goals in his hand, is in a commanding position heading up to 2. For Zimbabwe it was another reminder of their fighting in the longest format, despite the emotional return of their most experienced player.
– ends
Published:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
August 7, 2025
