Zimbabwe to Face New Zealand in 1st Test Match of 2025 Tour
Get ready for an exciting clash between Zimbabwe and New Zealand as they gear up to face off in the 1st Test match of the New Zealand tour of Zimbabwe, 2025. The match is set to take place at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Wednesday, July 30, at 10:00 am local time.
ZIM vs NZ Match Details
Match: Zimbabwe vs New Zealand (ZIM vs NZ), 1st Test Match
Date and Time: July 30, 08:00 am GMT / 01:30 pm IST / 10:00 am local time
Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
ZIM vs NZ Preview
Zimbabwe, represented by ZIM, will be going head-to-head with the strong New Zealand team, represented by NZ, in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams will be looking to start the series on a high note and set the tone for the matches to follow.
Possible Playing XI
The details of the possible playing XI for both teams will be updated soon as the coaches finalize their lineups based on the conditions and form of the players leading up to the match.
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Recent 5 Match Performance
Looking at the recent performances of both teams, Zimbabwe has won one out of their last five matches, while New Zealand has secured three victories. The teams will be looking to improve their records and put on a strong show in the upcoming test match.
Head-To-Head Records
In their previous encounters, Zimbabwe has won one match against New Zealand, who have emerged victorious in six matches. With both teams eager to add to their tally, this match will be a crucial one in their head-to-head history.
Toss Prediction and Pitch Report
As for the toss prediction, we anticipate the team winning the toss to opt for batting first. The pitch at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo is expected to provide assistance to seamers initially with swing and movement, making it a balanced surface for both batsmen and bowlers. Spinners are likely to come into play as the match progresses, particularly in the final days.
Weather Report
On the day of the match, July 30, at 10:00 am, Bulawayo is expected to have sunny weather with a mild temperature of around 14°C (56°F). The conditions will be ideal for cricket, with a firm outfield and good visibility for the players.
Full Squad
Check out the full squads for both teams:
Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine, Ben Curran, Tanunurwa Makoni, Nick Welch, Brian Bennett, Roy Kaia, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Vincent Masekesa, Clive Madande, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Wellington Masakadza, Tanaka Chivanga, Trevor Gwandu, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri.
New Zealand: Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Tom Blundell, William ORourke, Ajaz Patel, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher, Matt Henry.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Zimbabwe vs New Zealand 1st Test match as the teams prepare to battle it out in what promises to be an enthralling contest.
Team Preparations and Strategy
Both Zimbabwe and New Zealand have been diligently preparing for this upcoming Test match. Zimbabwe will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage and put up a strong performance against the formidable New Zealand side. With seasoned players like Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza in their ranks, Zimbabwe will be aiming to make an impact early on in the series.
On the other hand, New Zealand, known for their disciplined and strategic approach to the game, will be aiming to continue their winning momentum. With players like Tom Latham and Mitchell Santner in good form, New Zealand will be a tough challenge for Zimbabwe. Their consistent performances in recent times have established them as a force to be reckoned with in Test cricket.
Key Players to Watch
For Zimbabwe, all eyes will be on experienced batsman Craig Ervine, who has the ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships. His calm and composed approach will be crucial for Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. In the bowling department, Blessing Muzarabani’s pace and bounce can trouble the New Zealand batsmen on what is expected to be a lively pitch.
For New Zealand, the opening pair of Tom Latham and Devon Conway will be key to setting a solid foundation for the team. Their ability to negotiate the new ball and build a platform will be vital. In the bowling department, the spin duo of Mitchell Santner and Ajaz Patel can exploit the conditions and create opportunities for New Zealand to dominate.
Match Prediction
With both teams possessing a mix of experience and talent, the 1st Test match between Zimbabwe and New Zealand is expected to be a closely contested affair. Zimbabwe will look to make the most of their home conditions, while New Zealand will be determined to continue their winning streak.
Considering the recent form and head-to-head record, New Zealand might hold a slight edge going into the match. However, cricket is a game of uncertainties, and Zimbabwe has the capability to spring a surprise. It promises to be an intriguing battle between bat and ball, with both teams eager to make a statement early in the series.
Final Thoughts
As cricket enthusiasts gear up for the Zimbabwe vs New Zealand 1st Test match, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. With a blend of seasoned campaigners and young talents on both sides, the match is poised to showcase the beauty and intensity of Test cricket.
Stay tuned for live updates, analysis, and highlights as Zimbabwe and New Zealand lock horns in what is sure to be a riveting contest at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Don’t miss out on the action as two cricketing nations collide in pursuit of victory and glory.


