New Zealand tour of Zimbabwe 2025 2nd Test: ZIM vs NZ Live Score, Commentary & Full Scorecard

A wounded side, a returning veteran, and a chance for redemption, Bulawayo sets the stage for a Test that could stir some pride or seal domination. The second and final match of the two-Test series between New Zealand and Zimbabwe will begin at the Queens Sports Club, where the hosts are looking to salvage something after being thoroughly outplayed in the opener. For New Zealand, a 2-0 whitewash is in sight, having dismantled Zimbabwe in just under three days in the first Test. But for Zimbabwe, this isn’t just about squaring the series, as it’s about showing grit, putting up a fight, and proving that they can still challenge stronger teams in their own backyard. The first Test ended in under three days, and New Zealand were dominant in all departments. After opting to bat first, Zimbabwe were bundled out for just 149, and New Zealand responded with a strong 307, led by Devon Conway’s 88 and Daryl Mitchell’s 80. In Zimbabwe’s second innings, only Sean Williams and Tafadzwa Tsiga put up some resistance before they were bowled out for 165, setting New Zealand a target of just 8 runs, which they chased with ease. The standout performer was Matt Henry, who picked up nine wickets across both innings, including a six-fer. Will O’Rourke and Mitchell Santner also chipped in with important spells, making life extremely difficult for Zimbabwe's batters. For New Zealand, this Test will be about maintaining high standards and testing their bench strength. They will miss Nathan Smith, who has been ruled out due to an abdominal strain. Zakary Foulkes has been called up as his replacement, while Ben Lister comes in as a replacement for Will O'Rourke, who had complained of back stiffness and has been sent home for further tests. Michael Bracewell was also expected to leave the squad to return to the UK for his commitments with The Hundred after the first Test. However, there's a possibility that Tom Latham, the regular skipper, could return from injury if he passes the tests and is declared fit - if not, Mitchell Santner will continue to lead after impressing with the ball. With Henry in top form and a solid batting unit, the Kiwis will be confident, but also cautious about managing player workload and injuries. For Zimbabwe, this Test is a fresh chance to correct what went wrong. They have added a big name to their squad - Brendan Taylor, who returns to international cricket after completing his ban. Taylor could replace Tafadzwa Tsiga and take his place in the middle order, which might also allow Zimbabwe to deepen their batting. The hosts struggled with both bat and ball in the first Test, and captain Craig Ervine will hope for a better showing from experienced players like Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza. The bowling lacked sharpness, with only Blessing Muzarabani and Tanaka Chivanga making some impact. For Zimbabwe to be competitive, they need to improve their top-order resilience and field with more intensity. Looking at the conditions, Bulawayo has typically offered something for everyone, early movement for pacers and some grip for spinners as the match progresses. The weather is expected to stay clear throughout the five days, allowing for a full Test. However, with Zimbabwe’s fragile batting, the match may again be decided well before the fifth day. The pressure is clearly on Zimbabwe to stand tall and give their fans a performance to cheer for. But New Zealand are just too well-drilled at the moment and look set for a series sweep, unless Zimbabwe produce something truly special. Who will come out on top? Will New Zealand do a clean sweep? Or will Zimbabwe punch above their weight and show some fight to make the series 1-1? Let’s find out soon!