New Zealand Seizes Control on Day One
New Zealand made a powerful start to their Test series against Zimbabwe as fast bowler Matt Henry led from the front with an outstanding spell, taking 6 wickets for 39 runs. His performance helped dismiss Zimbabwe for just 149 runs on the first day of the first Test at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Early Strikes Set the Tone
After Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to bat, Matt Henry wasted no time making an impact. He removed both Zimbabwean openers, Brian Bennett for 6 and Ben Curran for 13, within the first seven overs. With support from the pitch, Henry’s disciplined line and length made it difficult for the batters to settle.
Zimbabwe’s Brief Resistance
Captain Craig Ervine tried to anchor the innings, scoring 39 runs off 116 balls. He added 36 runs for the fourth wicket with Nick Welch, who contributed 27. However, just before lunch, Henry came back to dismiss Welch at second slip. After the break, he continued his rampage by removing the experienced Sikandar Raza for just 2 runs, caught behind.
Another partnership between Ervine and wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga added some resistance. They put on 54 runs for the sixth wicket, helping Zimbabwe reach 123 for five. But that was the last meaningful stand, as New Zealand’s bowlers cleaned up the tail.
Smith Provides Support, O’Rourke Keeps Pressure
While Henry was the star of the show, Nathan Smith played a key supporting role. He bowled 14 economical overs and claimed 3 wickets for just 20 runs. His two crucial lbw dismissals of Ervine and Tsiga before tea further dented Zimbabwe’s chances. Will O’Rourke, though wicketless, bowled tightly and maintained the pressure from the other end.
New Zealand’s Steady Reply
In reply, New Zealand openers Devon Conway and Will Young ensured their team ended the day in a commanding position. They batted cautiously at first, countering the new ball challenge posed by Zimbabwe’s quicks. Conway reached his half-century in the second last over of the day, his first Test fifty since October last year against India.
Young played a supportive role, finishing the day unbeaten on 41. Together, they put on 92 runs without loss, giving New Zealand full control going into Day Two.
Zimbabwe’s Recent Test Form
Despite having played eight Test matches since New Zealand’s last red-ball game, Zimbabwe has struggled in the format. With six losses, one draw, and only one win—against Bangladesh earlier this year—they entered this series with low confidence.
Day Two will be crucial for both teams. New Zealand will aim to build a massive first-innings lead, while Zimbabwe must strike early to avoid falling too far behind. With the pitch still offering movement, their bowlers need to capitalize quickly. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s solid foundation gives them the upper hand to dominate further.
