New Zealand wrapped the commanding nine goals over Zimbabwe in the opening test in Bulawayo, sealed the match within three days and set the brand for the series. The Black Caps gave the 1-0 lead in a series of two matches.
After Zimbabwe first decided Bat, Matt Henry released a devastating charm, took 6 for 39 and jerked the highest order of the hosts. Zimbabwe was only tapped for the 149-lowest score in seven shifts and the second lowest total of 2025. Nathan Smith offered strong support only in his third test, completed 3 for 20.
New Zealand responded with the intention. Openers will be young (41*) and Devon Conway (51*) place on a solid stand, quickly erase the deficit. Despite a short collapse – a selection of five goals for 42 runs – visitors recovered to Post 307, led by a courageous 80 from Daryl Mitchell and an excellent 88 from Conway. This was provided by New Zealand the first 158 lead.
Mitchell Santner wrecks Zimbabwe 3. Day
Zimbabwe’s second shift began to shake, ending day two on 31 for 2, still ending. On the third day they put on 165 and lost the remaining eight goals for 134.
Mitchell Santner, who stood as the captain of the injured Tom Latham, dismantled the order of tabs with numbers 4 for 27 of 17.1 overs. Henry and William O’Rourke gave him support with three goals per piece.
New Zealand was chasing only eight runs to win and lost Devon Conway for a duck, but every young and Henry Nicholls everybody hit the border to finish the chase with ease.
When Santner spoke at the ceremony after the match, he said, “Great collective performances, more in it with the ball than we thought. Lengths and lines, corrected them to promote 150.
The second and last test is scheduled to start on Thursday, August 7 in Bulawayo.
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Published:
Sabyasachi Chowdhury
Published on:
August 1, 2025
