Fast bowler Matt Henry led New Zealand’s charge on the opening day of the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club on Wednesday. Henry’s remarkable performance with the ball helped the Blackcaps dominate, as Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 149 runs after winning the toss and electing to bat.
Henry’s outstanding figures of 6 for 39 were the highlight of the day. He wasted no time adjusting to red-ball cricket, taking both Zimbabwe openers, Brian Bennett (6) and Ben Curran (13), within the first seven overs. His spell was crucial in putting the hosts on the back foot early.
The New Zealand seamer was not done yet. After the lunch break, Henry took two more wickets in a single over, then returned to finish off the Zimbabwean batting lineup after tea, claiming his final two wickets. The other standout bowler for New Zealand was Nathan Smith, who took 3 for 20 in 14 disciplined overs.
Zimbabwe’s captain, Craig Ervine, top-scored with 39 runs, but it was a slow and patient knock, taking 116 balls. Ervine and Nick Welch (27) added a brief partnership of 36 runs for the fourth wicket.
However, Henry’s return just before lunch saw Welch caught at second slip, followed by the dismissal of experienced batter Sikandar Raza shortly after the break.
Despite some resistance from Ervine and wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga (30), Zimbabwe’s innings crumbled. Smith was instrumental, trapping both batsmen leg before wicket before tea, leaving Zimbabwe with no chance to recover.
In New Zealand’s reply, openers Devon Conway and Will Young remained unbeaten at stumps, with Conway reaching a patient 51* and Young on 41*.
Conway’s fifty was significant, marking his first Test half-century since October of last year. Despite an extended opening spell from Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani, no breakthroughs were made.
Looking ahead, New Zealand will aim to build on their strong position in the second Test, scheduled from 7 to 11 August at the same ground. With Matt Henry’s superb display, New Zealand is firmly in control.
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