Henry’s Six-for Puts New Zealand Firmly in Control on Day 1 in Bulawayo

New Zealand pacer Matt Henry delivered a career-defining performance, taking 6 for 39 to dismantle Zimbabwe for just 149 in the first innings of the opening Test. With the tourists reaching 92/0 at stumps, New Zealand hold a commanding 57‑run lead and strong momentum heading into Day 2.

Henry Spins the Momentum

Henry's 6-wicket haul, comprising 15.3 overs with three maidens, included pivotal scalps such as top-order batters Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, and Nick Welch, as well as skipper Craig Ervine and middle-order threat Sikandar Raza. His figures now stand as the best Test bowling performance by a New Zealand bowler in Zimbabwe, surpassing previous records on the ground.

Teaming up with Nathan Smith, who claimed 3/20, New Zealand’s seam attack operated with ruthless precision to collapse Zimbabwe’s batting lineup in just over 60 overs.

New Zealand Ride Smooth Opening Stand

In reply, openers Devon Conway (51*) and Will Young (41*) batted through the final session without loss, putting up 92 runs in 26 overs to edge ahead of the hosts before stumps. Their calm partnership wiped out more than half the deficit and laid the platform for a strong position on Day 2. 

With Zimbabwe bowled out inside two sessions and New Zealand dominating with both ball and bat, the Black Caps have laid the groundwork for what could be a lopsided Test. Expect momentum, confidence, and match control to stay with the visitors as play resumes.