New Zealand have emphatically concluded their tour of Zimbabwe, securing a dominant 2-0 series victory after crushing the hosts in the second Test by an innings and 359 runs. This monumental win, achieved on August 9, 2025, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, not only sealed the series but also marked New Zealand's largest-ever Test victory by runs. The margin of victory is also the third-highest in Test history.
Zimbabwe's captain, Craig Ervine, won the toss and chose to bat first. However, the decision backfired as the Zimbabweans were bundled out for a paltry 125 in their first innings. Only Brendan Taylor, with 44, and Tafadzwa Tsiga, who scored 33*, managed to cross the 20-run mark. Matt Henry spearheaded the New Zealand bowling attack, claiming 5 wickets for 40 runs, while debutant Zakary Foulkes impressed with 4 wickets for 38.
In reply, New Zealand showcased their batting prowess, amassing a formidable 601/3 before declaring. Devon Conway led the charge with a brilliant 153, ending a 16-Test streak without a century. He formed a substantial 162-run opening partnership with Will Young, who contributed a solid 74. Henry Nicholls, playing in his first Test series since December 2023, remained unbeaten on 150, while Rachin Ravindra blazed his way to an unbeaten 165 off just 139 balls. Nicholls and Ravindra further compounded Zimbabwe's woes with a massive 256-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
Faced with a daunting 476-run deficit, Zimbabwe faltered in their second innings, managing only 117. Only Nick Welch offered some resistance, remaining unbeaten on 47. Zakary Foulkes capped off a memorable debut by taking 5 wickets for 37 runs. Matt Henry and Jacob Duffy chipped in with two wickets each. Jacob Duffy's first Test wicket was the final one of the match, as he dismissed Tanaka Chivanga to seal the victory.
The match was dominated by New Zealand from the beginning. After dismissing Zimbabwe cheaply on Day 1, New Zealand built a strong lead through outstanding batting performances. According to reports, Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, and Rachin Ravindra all scored centuries, putting Zimbabwe's bowlers under relentless pressure. Zimbabwe's bowlers struggled, with Muzarabani conceding 101 runs in 24 overs and Chivanga giving away 94 runs in 17 overs without taking a wicket.
Mitchell Santner, New Zealand's stand-in captain, received the trophy and praised his team's performance in both Tests. He noted the team displayed high standards in all departments, with several players contributing to the victories.
Zimbabwe will now focus on a home white-ball series against Sri Lanka, while New Zealand will have a break before hosting Australia for a T20I series in October.
