Zimbabwe vs New Zealand: The stage is set for an exciting encounter in the Zimbabwe T20I Tri Series as the hosts, Zimbabwe, take on the formidable New Zealand. This match, the third of the series, holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to establish their dominance early in the tournament.
Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Match Details
Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Match Preview
Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe, led by their star all-rounder Sikandar Raza, will be eager to bounce back after their opening loss to South Africa. They managed to post a total of 141/6 in their 20 overs, which South Africa chased down comfortably. While Raza himself can be a game-changer with both bat and ball, the team will need more collective effort from their batting lineup. On the bowling front, the likes of Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava will be crucial in containing the aggressive New Zealand batting order. Playing at home, Zimbabwe will look to utilize the familiar conditions to their advantage and put up a strong fight against a top-tier team.
New Zealand: New Zealand enters this match on the back of a victory against South Africa in their previous game, where they successfully defended a target despite a middle-order collapse. They showed resilience, particularly through Tim Robinson’s unbeaten 75 and Bevon Jacobs’ crucial 44. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Jacob Duffy and Matt Henry, was impressive, sharing six wickets between them. With the return of Devon Conway and the presence of experienced players like Mitchell Santner (captain) and Glenn Phillips, New Zealand possesses a strong and balanced squad. They will be looking to continue their winning momentum and solidify their position in the series.
Head-to-Head (T20Is): New Zealand has a dominant record against Zimbabwe in T20 Internationals. In the 6 matches played between the two sides, New Zealand has emerged victorious in all 6 encounters, while Zimbabwe is yet to register a win. This historical dominance will certainly be a factor in the upcoming game.
Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Harare Sports Club Pitch Report
The Harare Sports Club pitch is generally considered to be on the slower side, offering grip and turn for spinners, especially during the middle overs. However, a balanced track is expected for this match, providing some early movement for pacers with the new ball while still allowing batters to score if they apply themselves.
- Average first-innings T20I score: Around 151.
- The team batting first has won 34 out of 61 T20s at this venue, indicating a slight advantage in setting a target.
- No team has successfully chased a 200+ total in T20Is at Harare.
- Pace bowlers have picked up 40 wickets in the last five T20Is here, while spinners have taken 30 wickets, suggesting both have a role to play. Captains winning the toss are likely to opt to set a total and let their bowlers exploit the slowing conditions as the innings progresses.
Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Fantasy Tips & Dream11 Prediction
- Top Order Batsmen: With the pitch offering a bit for both pacers and spinners, consistent top-order batsmen who can navigate the initial overs and build an innings will be crucial. Consider players like Pathum Nissanka, Devon Conway, and Tim Robinson.
- All-rounders: In T20 cricket, all-rounders are gold. Sikandar Raza and Mitchell Santner will be key picks given their ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball.
- Spinners: Given the nature of the Harare pitch, quality spinners can be impactful in the middle overs. Keep an eye on Ish Sodhi, Mitchell Santner, and any promising Zimbabwean spinners.
- Pace Bowlers: New ball bowlers who can extract some movement early on will be vital. Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, and Blessing Muzarabani could pick up early wickets.
Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Dream11 Team Suggestion
- Wicketkeeper: Tim Seifert (NZ)
- Batsmen: Devon Conway (NZ), Tim Robinson (NZ), Glenn Phillips (NZ), Brian Bennett (ZIM)
- All-rounders: Sikandar Raza (ZIM) (Captain), Mitchell Santner (NZ) (Vice-Captain), Ryan Burl (ZIM)
- Bowlers: Jacob Duffy (NZ), Matt Henry (NZ), Blessing Muzarabani (ZIM)
Captaincy Choices: Sikandar Raza (ZIM), Mitchell Santner (NZ) Vice-Captaincy Choices: Glenn Phillips (NZ), Devon Conway (NZ)
Zimbabwe vs New Zealand Match Prediction
New Zealand, with their strong head-to-head record and recent win against South Africa, will start as the favorites in this encounter. Their balanced squad and the form of their key players give them an edge. While Zimbabwe will be playing at home, they will need a significant improvement across all departments to challenge the Black Caps.
Our Prediction: New Zealand to win the 3rd match of the Tri-Series.
