New Zealand's regular captain Tom Latham has been ruled out of the first Test match against Zimbabwe. This decision was taken in view of the finger injury he sustained while fielding in the recent T20 match in Birmingham.
NZ vs ZIM: The New Zealand cricket team has suffered a major setback ahead of the two-Test series against Zimbabwe. Regular captain Tom Latham has been ruled out of the first Test match due to injury. In his place, experienced all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been given the responsibility of captaining the side.
The first Test match between New Zealand and Zimbabwe (NZ vs ZIM Test Series 2025) will begin on July 30 in Bulawayo. The second Test will be played at the same venue from August 7.
Tom Latham ruled out due to injury
Tom Latham's injury occurred during the recent T20 match against England when he sustained a serious finger injury while fielding. The New Zealand Cricket Board has confirmed that Latham is not fully fit and will not participate in the first Test. Head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment over Latham's absence but also supported the decision to give Santner the captaincy.
He said, "Tom is an important player for us, but we trust Mitchell. He recently led the T20 team brilliantly. Although Test is a different format, I am sure that he will guide the team in the best direction with the support of senior players."
Kiwis to take the field under Mitchell Santner's captaincy
Mitchell Santner's Test career has not been that extensive, but considering his experience and leadership skills, he has been given the responsibility of leading the team. In the 30 Test matches played so far, Santner has scored 1066 runs and taken 74 wickets. Santner is known as a spin all-rounder and has captained several times in limited-overs cricket.
Now, under his leadership, the New Zealand team will try to make a winning start in the Test series against Zimbabwe. This is a big opportunity for him, especially to prove himself in a challenging format like Test cricket. Changes in the batting order are also expected in Latham's absence. Young batsmen are likely to get a chance.
In such a situation, it will be interesting to see how the New Zealand team handles this change. Santner is expected to receive support from experienced players like Kane Williamson, Tim Southee and Trent Boult.
Full schedule of NZ vs ZIM Test Series
- First Test Match: July 30 to August 3, 2025, Venue: Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
- Second Test Match: August 7 to August 11, 2025, Venue: Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Through this Test series, New Zealand will try to improve their Test ranking, while Zimbabwe will want to perform bly on home soil.
