New Zealand stayed ahead in the second Test against Zimbabwe after solid half-centuries from Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell helped them secure a crucial first-innings lead on the second day at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Thursday, July 31.
The day began perfectly for Zimbabwe as Blessing Muzarabani struck with the very first ball, removing Will Young with a short delivery that cramped him for room. Muzarabani continued to exploit the short ball effectively, later dismissing Henry Nicholls who fell while trying to counter-attack the tactic.
Zimbabwe built on that early momentum just before lunch, with Sikandar Raza claiming the important wicket of Rachin Ravindra. Though New Zealand had taken the lead by that stage, the hosts walked into the break with growing confidence.
In the second session, Conway missed out on a century, falling to Tanaka Chivanga who also used the short ball to good effect. Chivanga followed it up by removing Tom Blundell, tilting the balance in Zimbabwe’s favour. Daryl Mitchell was left with little support as wickets tumbled around him, but he remained composed under pressure and added vital runs.
Mitchell finally found a partner in Nathan Smith, and the duo had to negotiate the second new ball. However, Smith was forced to retire hurt after suffering an abdominal strain, dealing a blow to New Zealand’s hopes with both bat and ball.
Matt Henry, the hero with the ball in the first innings, stepped up with the bat this time, striking a few boundaries to extend New Zealand’s lead. Eventually, the visitors were bowled out for 307 in the 97th over.
With the ball in hand again, Henry continued to torment Zimbabwe, removing Ben Curran with yet another short delivery to register his seventh wicket of the match. William ORourke added to Zimbabwe’s problems by dismissing Brian Bennett shortly after.
Zimbabwe sent in Vincent Masekesa as a nightwatchman to see off the final few overs of the day. New Zealand deployed a double spin attack with Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, but Zimbabwe held firm to reach stumps without further damage.
Though they are still trailing, Zimbabwe remain just about in the contest after a battling end to Day 2.
– Ends
