Cricket Prediction | ZIM vs NZ | Zimbabwe Twenty20 Tri-Series 2025 | 3rd Match | July 18 – Can One Loss Knock ZIM Out Today?

ZIM vs NZ Match Analysis

The third match of the ZIM T20 Tri-Series will see Zimbabwe take on New Zealand at Harare Sports Club. The game is scheduled to start in the late afternoon, with conditions expected to be ideal for a thrilling contest under clear skies.

For this game, Zimbabwe fields a team balancing tried-and-tested players with exciting newcomers. Led by Sikandar Raza, they have shown fighting spirit despite a narrow defeat in their opening game.

New Zealand boasts a well-balanced squad led by Mitchell Santner, combining strong batting firepower with versatile bowling options. They showed their quality with a commanding win against South Africa in their opening match.

Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Team Preview & Squads

Zimbabwe

From rescue acts to game-breaking spells, Raza is Zimbabwe’s answer to “what if one man could do it all?” His ability to contribute both with the bat and ball makes him a key player on the side.

Zimbabwe’s batting lineup is anchored by Raza and supported by reliable players like Brian Bennett and Tony Munyonga. Clive Madande, the wicketkeeper-batsman, adds solidity to the middle order, while youngsters like Dion Myers are expected to provide the necessary aggression.

The bowling unit is spearheaded by Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani, both known for their pace and bounce. Wellington Masakadza provides spin options, backed up by Tinotenda Maposa and Ryan Burl, who bring variety to the attack.

Although ZIM set a respectable target of 141/6, South Africa surpassed it with ease, ending on 142/5 with overs remaining. Zimbabwe showed moments of fight but struggled to maintain pressure on the visitors.

Zimbabwe Squad

Zimbabwe Squad

Sikandar Raza (C), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande (wk), Wessly Madhevere, Tinotenda Maposa, Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Tafadzwa Tsiga

New Zealand

Mitchell Santner leads NZ with calmness and a strategic mindset. As a bowling all-rounder, he balances the side with his handy batting and spin bowling. Santner’s leadership has been effective in nurturing young talent and keeping the team competitive in all formats.

New Zealand’s batting boasts experienced players like Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell, alongside explosive talents such as Glenn Phillips and Mark Chapman. Tim Seifert and James Neesham add flexibility and power in the middle order.

The pace department is anchored by the pace and expertise of Matt Henry and Adam Milne, adding versatility to the attack. Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner provide spin options that can trouble batsmen with variations. Youngsters like Jacob Duffy and Zakary Foulkes add further depth, making New Zealand’s bowling attack well-rounded and adaptable.

NZ delivered a strong performance in their first match against South Africa, scoring a formidable 173/5. Their bowlers then restricted South Africa to 152, sealing a convincing 21-run victory. The win highlighted their batting firepower and bowling discipline, putting them in a strong position in the tri-series.

New Zealand Squad

New Zealand Squad

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

ZIM vs NZ Outfield Report

M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

The Harare pitch generally offers a good balance between bat and ball. Early assistance to the seamers is expected, with the surface likely to slow down slightly as the game progresses. Batsmen skilled in strike rotation and gap-finding are set to excel during the middle overs.

The weather forecast for match day predicts clear skies with temperatures hovering around 24-26°C. Humidity levels will be moderate, making it comfortable for players and fans alike. The absence of rain and dew should allow for a full 20 overs per side without interruptions.

Historically, the highest total recorded at Harare in T20s is around 180, while the lowest has dipped below 120. A first-innings score between 150 and 170 is often seen as a strong competitive total. Chasing teams have found success when crossing the 140-run mark, making this contest likely to revolve around the toss and early momentum.

Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In their last five T20 encounters, New Zealand has maintained dominance, winning four out of five matches against Zimbabwe. However, Zimbabwe’s resilience and home conditions could make this clash more competitive than previous meetings.

ZIM vs NZ Prediction

According to cricket analysts New Zealand have a 55% chance of Winning.