Cricket Highlights, July 18: Zimbabwe Twenty20 Tri-Series 2025 (3rd Match) – ZIM vs NZ

ZIM vs NZ (3rd Match) – Highlights

The third match of the Zimbabwe Twenty20 Tri-Series held at Harare on July 18, 2025, saw NZ cruise to a comfortable eight-wicket victory over ZIM. Chasing a modest target of 121 runs, the Black Caps secured the win with more than six overs to spare, finishing on 122 for 2 in just 13.5 overs. The match was dominated by some clinical batting performances from New Zealand and tight bowling spells that kept Zimbabwe’s scoring in check.

With the poise of a sculptor, Madhevere carved out a foundation that Zimbabwe could build upon.  Madhevere played a controlled knock of 36 runs off 32 balls, displaying a solid strike rate of 112.50. Alongside him, Brian Bennett provided some early support, scoring 21 runs from 20 deliveries. However, Zimbabwe struggled to build lasting partnerships as wickets fell regularly at crucial moments, slowing their momentum. Clive Madande, the wicketkeeper, managed only 8 runs before falling to Rachin Ravindra, who bowled a tidy spell to keep the pressure on the home side. Captain Sikandar Raza contributed a modest 12 runs before getting out, unable to ignite the innings.

Timely wickets from NZ bowling attack kept Zimbabwe’s batting lineup under control, preventing any major scoring spurts. Matt Henry was particularly impressive, claiming three wickets for 26 runs in his four overs, effectively breaking Zimbabwe’s batting rhythm. Ravindra also impressed with both ball and bat, taking one wicket while conceding just 10 runs in his three overs. Michael Bracewell and Adam Milne chipped in with key wickets, maintaining a disciplined line and length throughout the innings.

Despite the wickets falling, ZIM managed to reach 120 runs, a total that would have required a strong batting display to defend. Extras were kept minimal, reflecting the tight bowling discipline of the New Zealand attack.

Chasing 121, New Zealand’s innings started shakily when Tim Seifert was dismissed cheaply for 3 runs, caught by Tashinga Musekiwa off Muzarabani’s bowling. However, the game soon tilted heavily in favor of the visitors. Devon Conway played an unbeaten innings of 59 runs off just 40 balls, striking at an impressive 147.50. Balancing measured play with powerful strokes, his innings showcased four fours and two towering sixes. Conway’s calm and calculated approach laid a solid foundation for New Zealand’s chase.

Partnering Conway was Rachin Ravindra, who played a dazzling cameo of 30 runs from 19 balls, including four fours and one six. Ravindra’s aggressive stroke play took the pressure off Conway and kept the scoring rate climbing rapidly. His dismissal at 64 runs for the second wicket did little to rattle the New Zealand side, as Daryl Mitchell stepped up to finish the match with a confident 26 not out from 19 balls, ensuring a comfortable victory with plenty of time and wickets to spare.

The bowling effort from Zimbabwe in the second innings lacked the same potency they showed earlier. Blessing Muzarabani took a wicket but was expensive, while Tinotenda Maposa and Sikandar Raza were also unable to make breakthroughs that could have revived Zimbabwe’s hopes.

Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Scoreboard

Zimbabwe– 120/7 (20)

New Zealand– 122/2 (13.5)

Result – New Zealand won by 8 wickets (with 37 balls remaining)

Player of the Match – Devon Conway

Devon Conway

ZIM vs NZ Playing Eleven

Disclaimer: These Match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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