Cricket fans, brace yourselves for an electrifying showdown as Zimbabwe vs New Zealand 1st Test 2025 kicks off at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, on July 30! With New Zealand’s regular captain Tom Latham sidelined by a shoulder injury and Mitchell Santner stepping up as the 32nd Test captain, the Blackcaps face a spirited Zimbabwe side bolstered by the return of Sikandar Raza and Ben Curran. Can Zimbabwe pull off a historic upset at home, or will New Zealand’s depth prevail? This comprehensive guide dives into every detail—match info, pitch report, squads, fantasy tips, and more—to keep you ahead of the game. Let’s explore why this Test is a must-watch!
Match Information and Schedule
The ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 marks the start of a thrilling two-Test series in the New Zealand tour of Zimbabwe 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about the schedule and key details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | July 30–August 3, 2025 |
| Time | 10:00 AM Local (1:30 PM IST, 8:00 AM GMT) |
| Venue | Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe |
| Series | New Zealand tour of Zimbabwe 2025, 1st Test |
| Second Test | August 7–11, 2025, Queens Sports Club |
This series is not part of the ICC World Test Championship, giving both teams freedom to experiment with strategies. The second Test at the same venue promises more action, so stay tuned!
Excited for the ZIM vs NZ clash? Share your predictions in the comments below!
Venue Guide: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo is a historic venue known for hosting Zimbabwe and Matabeleland matches. With a capacity of 9,000, it features two ends—City End and Airport End—and a passionate cricket atmosphere.
| Venue Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Stadium | Queens Sports Club |
| City | Bulawayo, Zimbabwe |
| Capacity | 9,000 |
| Ends | City End, Airport End |
| Notable Match | South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder scored 367* here in 2025 |
Fan Tips:
- Tickets: Available online via Zimbabwe Cricket’s official site or at the venue. Prices start at $5 USD.
- Seating: Opt for City End for a vibrant crowd vibe or Airport End for a quieter view.
- Attractions: Visit Matobo National Park or Bulawayo’s Railway Museum during breaks.
- Dining: Try local eateries like 26 on Park for Zimbabwean cuisine.
- Planning to attend? Share your Bulawayo experience on X with #ZIMvsNZ!
Pitch Report and Playing Conditions
The Queens Sports Club pitch is known for being batting-friendly early on, with an average first innings score of 310 and second innings score of 396. Pacers like Blessing Muzarabani and Matt Fisher can exploit early swing, while spinners like Sikandar Raza and Ajaz Patel come into play on days 4–5 as the pitch wears.
| Pitch Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Average 1st Innings | 310 |
| Average 2nd Innings | 396 |
| Pacer Wickets | 60% early, 40% later |
| Spinner Wickets | 30% early, 60% later |
Tactical Insight: Teams winning the toss may bat first to capitalize on early conditions, but spinners will be crucial for Zimbabwe (Raza, Masakadza) and New Zealand (Santner, Patel).
Weather Forecast
Bulawayo’s weather from July 30–August 3, 2025, is expected to be ideal for cricket: sunny, breezy, and warm. Here’s the forecast:
| Date | Conditions | Temperature | Rain Chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 30 | Sunny, breezy | 18–23°C | 5% |
| July 31 | Clear skies | 19–24°C | 0% |
| Aug 1–3 | Partly cloudy | 20–25°C | 10% |
Impact: Clear skies favor batting, while breezy conditions could aid swing bowlers like Matt Henry. No major rain interruptions are expected.
Squads and Recent Changes
Both teams have announced strong squads, with notable changes due to injuries and availability. Here’s the breakdown:
| Team | Squad | Key Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Zimbabwe | Craig Ervine (c), Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Tanaka Chivanga, Trevor Gwandu, Roy Kaia, Tanunurwa Makoni, Clive Madande (wk), Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Nick Welch, Sean Williams | Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza return after missing South Africa Tests. Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Prince Masvaure, Wessly Madhevere, and Kundai Matigimu dropped. |
| New Zealand | Mitchell Santner (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Michael Bracewell | Tom Latham (shoulder injury) ruled out; Santner named captain. Glenn Phillips (groin injury) replaced by Michael Bracewell. Matt Fisher earns debut call-up. Kane Williamson, Kyle Jamieson, and Ben Sears unavailable. |
Key Notes:
- Zimbabwe: Raza’s MLC form and Curran’s recovery from a hand injury boost the batting. Muzarabani leads the pace attack.
- New Zealand: Santner’s T20I tri-series success (4/0, including a 3-run final win vs. South Africa) adds confidence. Fisher’s 51 First-Class wickets at 24.11 make him a debutant to watch.
Recent Team Performance
Both teams come off contrasting T20I tri-series campaigns in Harare (July 2025), setting the stage for an intriguing Test battle.
| Team | Recent Form | Key Performances |
|---|---|---|
| Zimbabwe | Lost all 4 T20I tri-series matches (0/4). Lost to South Africa (5 wickets, 7 wickets) and New Zealand (8 wickets, 60 runs). | Brian Bennett: 61 off 43 vs. South Africa; Sikandar Raza: 58 off 36 vs. South Africa. |
| New Zealand | Recent Team Performance Both teams come off contrasting T20I tri-series campaigns in Harare (July 2025), setting the stage for an intriguing Test battle. Team Recent Form Key Performances Zimbabwe Lost all 4 T20I tri-series matches (0/4). Lost to South Africa (5 wickets, 7 wickets) and New Zealand (8 wickets, 60 runs). Brian Bennett: 61 off 43 vs. South Africa; Sikandar Raza: 58 off 36 vs. South Africa. New Zealand | Tim Seifert: 171 runs, avg. 57.00, top score 66; Matt Henry: 8 wickets, avg. 11.75; Ish Sodhi: 6 wickets, including 4/12 vs. Zimbabwe; Tim Robinson: 75* off 57 vs. South Africa. |
Analysis:
- Zimbabwe: Struggled in the T20I tri-series, with batting inconsistencies highlighted by Sikandar Raza’s admission of poor middle-over play against spin (120/7 vs. New Zealand). Brian Bennett’s aggressive 61 off 43 shows promise, but the team’s 0/4 record reflects a need for stronger batting depth as they transition to Test cricket.
- New Zealand: Dominated the tri-series under Mitchell Santner’s leadership, showcasing depth despite missing Kane Williamson, Finn Allen (foot injury), and Glenn Phillips (groin injury). Tim Seifert’s consistent batting, Matt Henry’s pace, and Ish Sodhi’s career-best 4/12 underline their form. A thrilling 3-run final win over South Africa, sealed by sensational catches from Michael Bracewell and Daryl Mitchell, boosts confidence for the Test series.
Head-to-Head Record
ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 New Zealand has historically dominated Zimbabwe in Test cricket, with a strong record in bilateral series. Here’s a snapshot:
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 17 |
| New Zealand Wins | 12 |
| Zimbabwe Wins | 0 |
| Draws | 5 |
| Last Series (2016) | New Zealand won 2–0 in Zimbabwe |
Analysis: Zimbabwe’s last Test win against New Zealand was in 2001, making an upset a tall order. However, New Zealand’s depleted squad (no Latham, Williamson, or Phillips) offers hope.
Key Batters to Watch
ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 These batsmen could define the match with their form and adaptability:
| Player | Team | Key Stats | Why Watch? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sikandar Raza | Zimbabwe | 58 off 36 (T20I tri-series, 2025) | All-rounder, explosive batting, spin threat. |
| Ben Curran | Zimbabwe | 72 in last Test vs. England (2025) | Returning after injury, solid opener. |
| Brian Bennett | Zimbabwe | 139 vs. England (Test, 2025) | Young talent, aggressive top-order batsman. |
| Devon Conway | New Zealand | 59 in T20I tri-series (2025) | Reliable opener, stepping up without Latham. |
| Will Young | New Zealand | 354 Test runs in 2024 | Likely to open, consistent performer. |
Key Bowlers to Watch
ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 The bowling attacks will be crucial, especially on a pitch that evolves over five days:
| Player | Team | Key Stats | Why Watch? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blessing Muzarabani | Zimbabwe | 14 wickets in 2024 Tests | Pace leader, early swing threat. |
| Wellington Masakadza | Zimbabwe | 3 wickets vs. South Africa (2025) | Spin option for later days. |
| Matt Fisher | New Zealand | 51 FC wickets at 24.11 | Debutant, pace and bounce. |
| Ajaz Patel | New Zealand | 10 wickets in an innings vs. India (2021) | Spin maestro, fond of Bulawayo. |
| Matt Henry | New Zealand | 8 wickets in T20I tri-series (2025) | Consistent, dangerous with new ball. |
Key Players to Watch
ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 These all-rounders and game-changers could swing the match:
| Player | Team | Role | Why Watch? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sikandar Raza | Zimbabwe | All-rounder | Captain’s form, spin wickets, big runs. |
| Sean Williams | Zimbabwe | All-rounder | Experience, anchors innings. |
| Mitchell Santner | New Zealand | All-rounder/Captain | First Test captaincy, spin threat. |
| Michael Bracewell | New Zealand | All-rounder | Replaces Phillips, versatile player. |
Quote: “Mitch did a wonderful job with the T20 squad,” said coach Rob Walter, highlighting Santner’s leadership credentials.
Broadcast and Streaming Details
ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 Can’t make it to Bulawayo? Here’s how to catch the action:
| Region | Platform | Details |
|---|---|---|
| India | Fancode app/website | Subscription-based streaming, no TV broadcast |
| Zimbabwe | ZTN Prime (Channel 294), DStv app | Local TV and streaming |
| Global | Sky Sports (UK), SuperSport (Africa) | Check local listings |
Tip: Download the Fancode app for live updates and highlights. Subscriptions start at ₹99/month in India.
Where are you watching the Test? Share on X with #ZIMvsNZ!
Fantasy Tips and Dream11 Prediction
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 offers exciting Dream11 opportunities. Here’s a suggested team based on form and pitch conditions:
| Player | Role | Team | Credits | Why Pick? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clive Madande | Wicketkeeper | Zimbabwe | 7.5 | Consistent, safe hands. |
| Tom Blundell | Wicketkeeper | New Zealand | 8.0 | Reliable, likely to bat high. |
| Brian Bennett | Batsman | Zimbabwe | 8.0 | 139 vs. England, in-form. |
| Devon Conway | Batsman | New Zealand | 9.0 | Opener, T20I form (59 runs). |
| Sikandar Raza | All-rounder | Zimbabwe | 9.5 | Captain, runs + wickets. |
| Mitchell Santner | All-rounder | New Zealand | 8.5 | Captain, spin threat. |
| Michael Bracewell | All-rounder | New Zealand | 8.0 | Versatile, replacing Phillips. |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Bowler | Zimbabwe | 8.5 | Pace leader, early wickets. |
| Matt Fisher | Bowler | New Zealand | 7.5 | Debutant, X-factor pace. |
| Ajaz Patel | Bowler | New Zealand | 8.5 | Spin maestro, loves Bulawayo. |
| Wellington Masakadza | Bowler | Zimbabwe | 7.0 | Spin option for days 4–5. |
Captain: Sikandar Raza (2x points) – Explosive batting and spin wickets.
Vice-Captain: Mitchell Santner (1.5x points) – Leadership, all-round impact.
Tips:
- Prioritize top-order batsmen (Bennett, Conway) for Bulawayo’s batting-friendly pitch.
- Include spinners (Raza, Santner, Patel) for later days.
- Avoid out-of-form players like Tafadzwa Tsiga (72 runs in 8 Test innings).
Build your Dream11 team and share it in the comments!
Zimbabwe’s Upset Potential and Tactical Analysis
ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 Zimbabwe has a golden opportunity to challenge a depleted New Zealand side missing Tom Latham, Kane Williamson, and Glenn Phillips. Here’s how they can pull off an upset:
- Batting: Rely on Raza’s aggression and Curran’s solidity to counter New Zealand’s pace attack (Fisher, Henry).
- Bowling: Muzarabani’s early swing and Raza’s spin could exploit New Zealand’s reshuffled top order.
- Home Advantage: The Bulawayo crowd and pitch knowledge favor Zimbabwe.
New Zealand, led by Santner, will lean on:
- Spin Duo: Santner and Patel to dominate on a wearing pitch.
- Pace Attack: Fisher’s debut and Henry’s experience to target Zimbabwe’s middle order.
Fan Guide: Attending ZIM vs NZ Test in Bulawayo
Heading to Queens Sports Club? Here’s your ultimate fan guide:
- Tickets: Buy online or at the venue (from $5 USD).
- Seating: City End for lively vibes, Airport End for calm views.
- Travel: Fly into Bulawayo’s Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport, then taxi to the stadium.
- Attractions: Explore Bulawayo’s Railway Museum or Matobo National Park post-match.
- Dining: Grab a meal at 26 on Park for local flavors.
Conclusion and Match Prediction
The ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 is poised for drama, with Zimbabwe’s strengthened squad facing a New Zealand side navigating Santner’s captaincy debut and Latham’s absence. Sikandar Raza’s all-round brilliance and Blessing Muzarabani’s pace give Zimbabwe hope, but New Zealand’s depth (Conway, Patel, Fisher) makes them favorites. Our prediction: New Zealand may edge out, but Zimbabwe could surprise if their top order fires. Follow IPL Star for more updates!
Poll: Who will win the 1st Test?
- A) Zimbabwe
- B) New Zealand
- C) Draw
Vote on X with #ZIMvsNZ!
FAQs for ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025
1. What is the schedule for the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025?
The ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 is scheduled for July 30–August 3, 2025, at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, starting at 10:00 AM local time (1:30 PM IST). The second Test follows on August 7–11 at the same venue. This non-World Test Championship series promises exciting cricket!
2. Who is captaining New Zealand in the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025?
Mitchell Santner is captaining New Zealand in the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025, stepping in as the 32nd Test captain due to Tom Latham’s shoulder injury sustained in a T20 match. Santner’s recent T20I tri-series success (4/0) makes him a key player to watch.
3. Why is Tom Latham missing the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025?
Tom Latham is ruled out of the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 due to a shoulder injury from a Vitality Blast T20 match. He remains with the squad, aiming to recover for the second Test on August 7.
4. What is the pitch report for Queens Sports Club in the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025?
The Queens Sports Club pitch in Bulawayo is batting-friendly early (average 1st innings: 310), favoring pacers like Blessing Muzarabani initially and spinners like Sikandar Raza on days 4–5. Expect big scores if teams bat first!
5. Where can I watch the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 live in India?
The ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 will be live-streamed on the Fancode app and website in India, with no TV broadcast. Subscriptions start at ₹99/month. Check Sky Sports (UK) or SuperSport (Africa) for global options.
6. Who are the key players to watch in the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025?
For Zimbabwe, Sikandar Raza (all-rounder) and Sean Williams (batsman) are crucial. For New Zealand, Mitchell Santner (captain, spinner) and debutant Matt Fisher (pacer) are ones to watch. Their performances could decide the match!
7. What is the best Dream11 team for the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025?
A top Dream11 team includes Sikandar Raza (captain), Mitchell Santner (vice-captain), Brian Bennett, Devon Conway, Blessing Muzarabani, and Matt Fisher. Pick Raza for his all-round impact on Bulawayo’s pitch.
8. Can Zimbabwe upset New Zealand in the 1st Test 2025?
Zimbabwe has a chance to upset New Zealand in the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025, with Raza and Curran back and New Zealand missing Latham and Williamson. Home advantage at Bulawayo could be key!
9. How do I get tickets for the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 in Bulawayo?
Tickets for the ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 are available via Zimbabwe Cricket’s website or at Queens Sports Club, starting at $5 USD. Opt for City End for a lively crowd vibe.
10. What is the head-to-head record for ZIM vs NZ in Tests?
ZIM vs NZ 1st Test 2025 New Zealand leads the Test head-to-head with 12 wins to Zimbabwe’s 0 in 17 matches, with 5 draws. Their last series in 2016 saw New Zealand win 2–0, but Zimbabwe aims to fight back in 2025.