ZIM vs NZ Tests Live: Santner Calls the Shots in Bulawayo
Zimbabwe hosts New Zealand for two Tests starting July 30 in Bulawayo. Santner leads as NZ makes debut under new coach; watch live streaming on FanCode.
Blackcaps Begin Test Series Against Zimbabwe Under New Leadership
The highly anticipated two-match Test series between Zimbabwe and New Zealand kicks off today, **July 30, 2025**, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. This series marks a significant moment for New Zealand cricket as they take the field under the interim captaincy of Mitchell Santner and the guidance of their newly appointed head coach, Rob Walter. Fans in India can catch all the live action on FanCode.
Here's a detailed look at what to expect from this exciting Test encounter.
Series Schedule and Venue
Both Test matches of the series will be played at the historic Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
- 1st Test: July 30 - August 3, 2025
- 2nd Test: August 7 - August 11, 2025
The first Test is set to begin at 10:00 AM local time (8:00 AM GMT / 1:30 PM IST).
New Zealand's New Era: Santner at the Helm, Walter as Head Coach
The Blackcaps enter this series with a notable change in leadership. Regular Test captain Tom Latham has been ruled out of the first Test due to a shoulder injury sustained earlier this month while fielding in a T20 match in England. In his absence, all-rounder **Mitchell Santner** will step up to lead the New Zealand Test side for the first time, becoming the 32nd player to captain New Zealand in Test cricket. Latham will remain with the squad and is hopeful of returning for the second Test.
This series also marks the first Test assignment for New Zealand's new head coach, **Rob Walter**. Appointed in June 2025, Walter replaced Gary Stead and is now the sole coach overseeing all three formats for the Blackcaps. Walter, who previously coached South Africa's white-ball teams, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the squad. New Zealand Cricket expressed confidence in Santner's leadership, citing his recent success as white-ball captain during the T20I Tri-Series in Harare, where New Zealand remained undefeated.
Squads and Players to Watch
Zimbabwe Squad (Captain: Craig Ervine)
- Craig Ervine (c), Brian Bennett, Tanaka Chivanga, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Roy Kaia, Tanunurwa Makoni, Clive Madande (wk), Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikandar Raza, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Nick Welch, Sean Williams.
- Key Players: Sean Williams (form with the bat), Sikandar Raza (all-round capabilities), Blessing Muzarabani (pace attack).
New Zealand Squad (Captain: Mitchell Santner)
- Mitchell Santner (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Michael Bracewell.
- Key Players: Devon Conway (consistent batting), Matt Henry (leading pace bowler), Rachin Ravindra (all-round talent).
New Zealand will be without Glenn Phillips due to a groin injury, with Michael Bracewell added to the squad as a replacement for the first Test.
Where to Watch: Live Streaming Details
Cricket enthusiasts can follow the live action of the Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Test series through the following platforms:
- India: FanCode
- Zimbabwe: SuperSport
- New Zealand: Three Now Sport
- Pakistan: Tapmad
- Rest of World: ICC TV
While no live telecast is available on traditional TV channels in India, FanCode will provide comprehensive live streaming, scores, and highlights.
Match Prediction and Pitch Report
Historically, New Zealand has dominated Test encounters against Zimbabwe, with 11 wins and 6 draws in 17 matches, and no losses. Based on current form and squad strength, New Zealand is widely favored to win the first Test.
The Queens Sports Club pitch in Bulawayo is generally considered a batting-friendly surface, offering good bounce and carry. Teams batting first have won all four Test matches played at this venue in 2025, suggesting that winning the toss and opting to bat will be the preferred strategy. The weather forecast indicates no chances of rain during the game, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 19°C.
A Test of Resilience and New Beginnings
As Zimbabwe aims to secure its first-ever Test victory against New Zealand, the series promises to be a test of resilience for the home side and a fresh start for the Blackcaps under new leadership. Mitchell Santner's captaincy debut and Rob Walter's first Test series as head coach will be closely watched as New Zealand looks to continue its dominance.
The stage is set for an intriguing battle in Bulawayo, offering exciting cricket action for fans worldwide.
0 Comments