ZIM vs NZ 2025, 2nd Test Day 1 Review: Matt Henry’s five-for helps New Zealand dominate on opening day

New Zealand displayed full dominance on Day 1 of the second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, thanks to a clinical bowling performance by Matt Henry and a solid opening stand by Devon Conway and Will Young. After bowling out Zimbabwe for just 125, the Kiwis ended the day at 174/1, taking a lead of 49 runs.

Zimbabwe, having elected to bat first after winning the toss, looked for a strong start. But their decision backfired as Henry ran through the top order with a brilliant opening spell. The pacer removed Brian Bennett in the third over and later trapped Nick Welch lbw. Debutant Zakary Foulkes dismissed Sean Williams and Craig Ervine, with the latter falling on the stroke of lunch.

Brendan Taylor, returning to Test cricket after more than three years, tried to anchor the innings with his 44, but his dismissal to Henry after lunch put the hosts further on the backfoot. Zimbabwe lost their last six wickets for just 42 runs, as Foulkes added two more scalps and Henry completed his sixth five-wicket haul. Matthew Fisher picked up his debut wicket, removing Tanaka Chivanga to end the innings. Notably, Tafadzwa Tsiga (33*) didn’t find any partners as Zimbabwe were bundled out for 125 in just 48.5 overs.

Conway-Young hammer first 150-plus opening stand in nearly three years

In reply, the BlackCaps made a strong start. Conway and Young added 162 for the first wicket, making it the third-highest opening stand for New Zealand against Zimbabwe and their first 150-plus opening stand in nearly three years. Young raced to a half-century off just 49 balls, while Conway brought up his fifty in 81 deliveries.

Young’s impressive knock ended when he was found walking for 74 off Trevor Gwandu. At stumps, New Zealand were 174/1, leading by 49 runs, with Conway unbeaten on 79 and nightwatchman Jacob Duffy on 8.

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