The first match of the two-Test series between Zimbabwe and New Zealand began on Wednesday in Bulawayo. The first day of the match belonged entirely to New Zealand.
Zim vs NZ 1st Test: The New Zealand cricket team dominated the first day of the first match of the two-Test series against Zimbabwe, establishing their dominance early. By the end of the first day's play, the Kiwi team had scored 92 runs without losing a wicket and is heading towards a b lead in the first innings.
Zimbabwe's First Innings Collapses for 149
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Zimbabwe's start was extremely disappointing. New Zealand's experienced fast bowler Matt Henry wreaked havoc with the ball, dismissing Zimbabwe for just 149 runs. Henry took 6 wickets for 39 runs in 15.3 overs. Nathan Smith also bowled effectively, taking 3 wickets.
For Zimbabwe, captain Craig Ervine top-scored with 39 runs. Tashinga Musakanda contributed 30 and Nick Welch added 27 runs. The remaining batsmen failed to reach double figures, resulting in the team being bowled out for 149 in just 60.3 overs.
Openers Provide New Zealand with a Strong Start
In reply, New Zealand got off to a very steady start. Devon Conway and Will Young formed an unbroken 92-run partnership for the first wicket without any trouble. Conway is unbeaten on 51* and Young is unbeaten on 41*. By the end of the first day's play, the Kiwi team is in a completely b position. It is worth noting that New Zealand is playing this Test without their regular captain Tom Latham. In his absence, Mitchell Santner is leading the team. Under Santner's captaincy, the team has performed excellently so far, showing balance in both bowling and batting.
Matt Henry Emerges as Bowling Hero
Regarding Matt Henry, he also performed brilliantly in the final of the T20 Tri-Series, where he played a key role in defeating South Africa by just 3 runs in the last over. Now, in the Test format, he has proven that he is a useful bowler in every format. The New Zealand team has been performing consistently well on this tour.
Earlier, in the T20 Tri-Series, the Kiwi team won the title by defeating teams like South Africa and Zimbabwe. Now, in the Test series as well, the team has strengthened its grip from the very first day.
