On August 7, 2025, Zimbabwe will host New Zealand for the second and final Test of the series at Bulawayo’s Queens Sports Club. The contest follows New Zealand’s commanding nine-wicket victory in the opening Test, where they wrapped up the match inside three days. Zimbabwe’s batting woes were exposed again after being dismissed for 149 in the first innings, while New Zealand piled on 307 in reply and chased down the small target with ease .
This match marks a poignant moment for Zimbabwe’s cricketing community as 39-year-old Brendan Taylor makes a highly anticipated return after completing a 3.5‑year ICC suspension, officially cleared on July 25, 2025. Taylor is expected to play in this second Test, offering veteran experience to a beleaguered batting line-up that has failed to reach 300 in any of their innings this year .
New Zealand, again led by Mitchell Santner, are facing a squad that has undergone continual shuffling due to injuries: Tom Latham is ruled out, and Will O’Rourke, despite a strong showing in the first Test, has also been sidelined with a back injury—uncapped Ben Lister retains his spot as cover.
With Zimbabwe desperate to salvage pride and New Zealand aiming to complete a clean sweep, today’s opening session promises tension. Will Taylor’s return spark a batting revival, or will New Zealand reinforce their dominance in Zimbabwean conditions?
