Cricket Prediction | NZ vs SA | Zimbabwe Twenty20 Tri-Series 2025 | 2nd Match | July 16 – Is It a Batting Show or a Bowling Blowout?

NZ vs SA Match Analysis

New Zealand will take on South Africa in the 2nd match of the ZIM T20 Tri-Series at Harare Sports Club on July 16, 2025. The action will begin at 1:00 PM local time (11:00 AM GMT). This encounter is crucial for both sides as they aim to build momentum early in the tournament.

New Zealand arrives in Zimbabwe with a balanced and experienced T20I squad led by Michael Bracewell. With several all-rounders and power-hitters, the Kiwis are looking to experiment with their bench strength while remaining competitive. 

South Africa, under Rassie van der Dussen’s leadership, blends youth and experience in this squad. The team showed great composure in their recent win over Zimbabwe and will aim to carry forward the momentum. 

New Zealand vs South Africa Team Preview & Squads

New Zealand

An experienced all-rounder, Michael Bracewell brings calm authority and keen game awareness to his leadership role. Known for his explosive batting and handy off-spin, he offers depth in both departments. 

NZ batting unit features a strong top order including Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, and Daryl Mitchell. Lower-order power hitters like James Neesham and Michael Bracewell provide valuable depth to the lineup. 

Their bowling attack is spearheaded by Matt Henry and Adam Milne, both capable of swinging the new ball and bowling at pace. Santner and Sodhi enhance the spin options, providing control and breakthroughs during the middle overs. 

In their last T20I against Pakistan at Wellington on March 26, 2025, NZ produced a dominant performance. Pakistan posted 128/9, but New Zealand chased it down comfortably in just 10 overs. Devon Conway and Tim Seifert anchored the chase brilliantly. The Kiwis won by 8 wickets with a whopping 60 balls to spare, showcasing ruthless efficiency.

New Zealand Squad

New Zealand

Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell (c), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway (wk), Jacob Duffy, Zakary Foulkes, Mitchell Hay (wk), Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi

South Africa

Rassie van der Dussen, one of SA’s most technically sound batters, leads this side with clarity and composure. His experience in international T20s will be crucial in guiding a team full of promising youngsters. He’s also expected to anchor the innings when needed.

SA batting is centered on Reeza Hendricks and van der Dussen, both capable of playing solid knocks. Dewald Brevis brings aggressive intent, while Rubin Hermann and Lhuan-dre Pretorius offer finishing power. This lineup can adapt well whether setting or chasing targets.

The Proteas feature a fiery pace unit with Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi, and Nandre Burger. Spin is well covered by George Linde and Senuran Muthusamy, offering control and variation. The team benefits from the variation of Maphaka’s left-arm pace and Bosch’s reliable all-round capabilities.

In the opening match of the tri-series against Zimbabwe on July 14, 2025, South Africa showed discipline with the ball and composure in their chase. Zimbabwe posted 141/6, but the Proteas comfortably chased it down in 15.5 overs. Reeza Hendricks played a key role with the bat, ensuring a 5-wicket win with 25 balls remaining. 

South Africa Squad

South Africa

Rassie van der Dussen (c), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Reeza Hendricks, Rubin Hermann, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Nqabayomzi Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Andile Simelane

SA vs NZ Outfield Report

Harare Sports Club

The Harare Sports Club wicket tends to favor neither batters nor bowlers, ensuring a well-balanced game. Batters find stroke-making easier under the sun, while bowlers—especially spinners—get help as the match progresses. Expect a moderately paced surface with some grip for slower bowlers.

The weather forecast for July 16 predicts clear skies and sunny intervals. The temperature is expected to hover around 24°C (75°F) with low humidity and a gentle breeze. Overall, ideal conditions for a T20 match with minimal rain threat.

At Harare, average first innings scores range between 145–165. Chasing teams often find success due to dew and better visibility under lights. The highest T20I total at this venue is around 229, while totals under 130 are considered below par.

New Zealand vs South Africa Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In their last five T20I meetings, New Zealand and South Africa have shared a competitive rivalry, with New Zealand winning three and South Africa taking two. Each encounter has been closely fought, making this match a potential thriller.

NZ vs SA Prediction

According to cricket analysts South Africa have a 52% chance of Winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.