The first Test between Zimbabwe and South Africa commenced today at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first.
This match marks the beginning of the next World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for South Africa. However, the South African side features several new faces, with key players like Temba Bavuma (recovering from a hamstring injury), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Lungi Ngidi all being rested. Keshav Maharaj is leading the side in Bavuma's absence.
Zimbabwe struck early, dismissing South African opener Tony de Zorzi for a duck. Blessing Muzarabani opened the attack for Zimbabwe. At the time of this update, South Africa were 3/1. Openers for South Africa are Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke.
Brian Bennett from Zimbabwe mentioned his good form and focus on sticking to his game plan, also noting the presence of two spinners in the team and hoping for assistance from the wicket. David Bedingham of South Africa expressed his excitement about being in Zimbabwe and the team's focus on embracing new opportunities. He also acknowledged that every game presents a chance to score runs.