BULAWAYO: Zimbabwe’s batting troubles continued on the opening day of the second Test against New Zealand, with returning veteran Brendan Taylor standing out as the only real fighter.
The home side could only manage 125 runs before being bowled out, as New Zealand’s seamers — led by Matt Henry and debutant Zakary Foulkes — tore through the batting order.
🗣Brendan Taylor speaks on Day 1 of the second Test at Queens Sports Club in which he scored 44 on his return to international cricket.#ExperienceZimbabwe #ZIMvNZ pic.twitter.com/qo2Lr9mMxa
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) August 7, 2025
Henry and Foulkes shine with the ball
Matt Henry, who took nine wickets in the first Test, continued his fine form by picking up another five-for (5-40). His pace and swing constantly troubled the Zimbabwe batters, making it difficult for them to settle.
Supporting him brilliantly was 23-year-old debutant Zakary Foulkes. Showing maturity beyond his years, he claimed four wickets and bowled with accuracy and confidence. Together, Henry and Foulkes dismantled Zimbabwe’s innings in just 49 overs
Zimbabwe collapse once more
Put in to bat first, Zimbabwe’s top order fell apart quickly. Brian Bennet was out for a duck, Nick Welch was trapped LBW by Henry, and captain Craig Ervine along with experienced Sean Williams also departed cheaply.
By the lunch break, Zimbabwe were struggling at 67 for 4, their innings already in deep trouble.
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Taylor’s lone resistance
Opening the batting for the first time since his three-and-a-half-year ban, Brendan Taylor looked determined to make an impact. The 39-year-old played patiently, top-scoring with 44 runs and giving fans a glimpse of his old class.
However, his innings came to an end when Henry had him caught. After Taylor’s dismissal, the lower order folded quickly. Sikandar Raza fell to a short ball, and only wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga provided some fight with an unbeaten 33.
Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 125 runs, leaving their bowlers with little to defend.
New Zealand take control
In reply, New Zealand’s openers got off to a flying start. Devon Conway and Will Young put together a strong 162-run opening stand. Young scored 74 before being dismissed, while Conway ended the day unbeaten on 79.
By stumps, New Zealand were 174 for 1, already leading by 49 runs and firmly in control of the match.
Taylor opens up on his return
Before the Test, Taylor spoke candidly about his journey back to cricket. He revealed the emotional toll of his ban — imposed for failing to report a corrupt approach and admitting to cocaine use — and how it led to struggles with anxiety, addiction, and isolation.
Taylor thanked Zimbabwe Cricket’s managing director, Givemore Makoni, along with his family, for their unwavering support during his absence. He described his comeback as “feeling like a debut again” and promised to give his best in what remains of his career.
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