Zimbabwe vs New Zealand – T20I Match Preview | 24 July 2025 | 12:00 GMT

Match Details

• Date: 24 July 2025
• Time: 12:00 GMT
• Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
• Format: T20I
• Series: Zimbabwe T20I Tri Series 2025
• Series Status: 6th Match

Series Overview

The 2025 Zimbabwe T20I Tri Series is a competitive international tournament featuring Zimbabwe, South Africa, and New Zealand. The teams are set to play a double round-robin format, with the top two sides advancing to the final on 26 July 2025.

All matches are being played at the Harare Sports Club, a venue known for its lively atmosphere and balanced pitch conditions, making it an ideal location for high-scoring T20I contests.

Team Form and Matchup History

New Zealand – The Resilient Giants

New Zealand, currently ranked 4th in the ICC T20I rankings, have been in excellent form during the tournament. They’ve won all three of their matches so far, including a dominant 8-wicket win over Zimbabwe in their previous encounter on 18 July 2025. Captain Mitchell Santner has been the standout performer, leading from the front with both bat and ball.

Key players to watch for New Zealand include:

• Mitchell Santner (C) – All-round threat with his spin and batting.
• Finn Allen – Explosive opener with a strong record in T20Is.
• Tim Seifert – Reliable middle-order run-scorer.
• Matt Henry – Key pace option and death-overs bowler.

Zimbabwe – The Home Advantage

Despite the loss to New Zealand in their most recent match, Zimbabwe have the benefit of home conditions and a passionate support base. However, they have struggled in the tournament so far, losing all three of their matches and sitting at the bottom of the points table.

Captain Sikandar Raza has been a consistent performer for Zimbabwe, often anchoring the innings and offering crucial runs. The team will also rely on the experience of Wellington Masakadza and the flair of Richard Ngarava in the middle order.

Head-to-Head Record

New Zealand have historically dominated Zimbabwe in T20I encounters. Their previous meetings include a 254-run win in 2016 and an innings and 117-run victory the same year. In the tournament, they have already beaten Zimbabwe by 8 wickets with 37 balls to spare on 18 July 2025.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Harare Sports Club pitch is generally good for batting, offering quick scoring opportunities in the middle and death overs. Spinners are also effective in the later stages of the game due to the slight assistance from the surface.

Weather is expected to be clear and warm, with no rain or humidity forecasted. This should benefit aggressive batting and provide consistent conditions for bowlers.

Match Prediction

Given New Zealand's current form and their strong record against Zimbabwe, they are the strong favorites for this match. However, Zimbabwe will be eager to bounce back and make a statement at home.

• Expected Match Winner: New Zealand
• Predicted Score: New Zealand 178/6
• Zimbabwe 155/8
• Margin: 23 runs

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Finn Allen vs Zimbabwe's Bowlers – If Finn can get off to a quick start, it could set the tone for a high-scoring chase.
2. Mitchell Santner vs Zimbabwe’s Batting Lineup – The New Zealand skipper is likely to play a pivotal role with his spin.
3. Sikandar Raza vs Matt Henry – A crucial battle in the middle overs that could determine the flow of the game.

Conclusion

This is a pivotal match in the Zimbabwe T20I Tri Series 2025, with New Zealand aiming to maintain their unbeaten run and secure a strong position in the final. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, will look to break their losing streak and capitalize on home advantage.

While New Zealand are the clear favorites, the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket means Zimbabwe can still pull off an upset, especially if their top order delivers and the bowlers exploit any early wicket opportunities.

Don't miss the action!
📍 Venue: Harare Sports Club
⏰ Time: 12:00 GMT
📅 Date: 24 July 2025
“`