New Zealand Crushes Zimbabwe in First Bulawayo Test

New Zealand secured a dominant nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the first Test at Bulawayo, finishing the match inside three days to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Matt Henry starred with the ball, taking 6-39 in the first innings and nine wickets overall, while stand-in captain Mitchell Santner contributed 4-27 in the second innings. Zimbabwe struggled in both innings, posting scores of 149 and 165, with Sean Williams and Craig Ervine offering resistance. New Zealand replied with 307 in their first innings, led by Devon Conway (88) and Daryl Mitchell (80), establishing a substantial 158-run lead. Despite losing Conway early during their chase, the visitors easily reached the eight runs required for victory. The second Test is set to begin on August 7 in Bulawayo, where Zimbabwe will aim for a stronger showing.