Conway, Henry Dominate as New Zealand Seize Contr...

Conway, Henry Dominate as New Zealand Seize Control Against Zim

Zim Now Writer

At 94 for eight, Zimbabwe's innings was all but over when Vincent Masekesa was bowled by Matt Henry, who was in devastating form. When the total reached 100, Blessing Muzarabani became Henry’s fifth victim, leaving Zimbabwe teetering at nine down.

But the final pair, Tafadzwa Tsiga and Tanaka Chivanga, dug in and resisted for 43 minutes, putting on 25 runs. Chivanga contributed a determined 4 from 22 deliveries before falling to a loose shot, caught at mid-off off Matthew Fisher’s bowling.

Tsiga held his ground and remained unbeaten on 33 off 54 balls, showing impressive composure. Zimbabwe, however, could only muster 125 – a score well below par.

Henry led the bowling attack superbly, finishing with figures of 5 for 40 in 15 overs. He was well supported by Foulkes, who claimed 4 for 38.

In response, New Zealand began confidently, with Devon Conway and Will Young racing to 23 runs in just the first three overs. The pair cruised past Zimbabwe’s total without any trouble, laying a strong foundation with a commanding opening stand of 162.

It was Gwandu who eventually broke the partnership, dismissing Young for 74 after he chopped onto his stumps attempting a pull shot.

At the close of play, New Zealand were firmly in control at 174 for one, with Conway unbeaten on 79 and Jacob Duffy not out on 8.