New Zealand Takes 158-Run Lead Over Zimbabwe in First Test at Bulawayo

New Zealand took a commanding position over Zimbabwe in the first Test at Queens Sports Club, building a 158-run lead after their first innings total of 307-9. Key performances came from Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell, who scored 88 and 80 runs respectively, while Zimbabwe's bowling was led by Blessing Muzarabani with three wickets for 73 runs. Zimbabwe, led by Craig Ervine, struggled against New Zealand’s strong bowling attack, ending day two at 31-2 and still trailing by 127 runs. The match marked a significant return to Test cricket between the two nations since 2016, with New Zealand adjusting to the absence of their usual Test captain Tom Latham due to injury, as white-ball captain Mitch Santner made his Test captaincy debut. Nathan Smith’s all-round contributions were notable before he retired hurt with an abdominal strain, adding to concerns for New Zealand. Zimbabwe’s spin attack and home conditions offer some hope as the series continues, but New Zealand’s dominance so far sets a challenging tone for the hosts.