Zimbabwe suffers devastating inning loss to New Zealand, resulting in a victory for the Kiwis.
New Zealand Secures Historic Win Against Zimbabwe
New Zealand has made history in Test cricket, securing a third-biggest win by an innings in Test history against Zimbabwe. The hosts were bowled out for 117 in their second innings, marking Zimbabwe's sixth consecutive defeat, four of which were by an innings.
The victory was set up by New Zealand's dominant first innings, declaring their score at an overnight total of 601 for three. Matt Henry, named player of the series for his impressive performance, took two wickets in the opening overs, catching Brendan Taylor at second slip and having Jacob Duffy caught off his own bowling.
Zak Foulkes, who was named player of the match for his score of 153, took five wickets in the match, with match figures of nine for 77. Matthew Fisher also contributed, having Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine caught at third slip.
Mitch Santner captained New Zealand in both Tests in the absence of the injured Tom Latham. The New Zealand batsmen showed resilience, getting through tough periods and forming partnerships before cashing in on their opportunities. Nic Welch scored an unbeaten 47 for Zimbabwe, batting at number three, but it was not enough to prevent the heavy defeat.
This win surpasses New Zealand's previous biggest win over Zimbabwe, an innings and 301 runs in 2011/12 in Napier. The victory also comes close to some of the largest innings victories in Test cricket history.
Here are the top 10 biggest wins by an innings in Test cricket history:
- England beat Australia by an innings and 589 runs at The Oval in 1938.
- Australia beat South Africa by an innings and 360 runs at Wanderers in 2002.
- New Zealand beat Zimbabwe by an innings and 359 runs at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo in 2025.
- West Indies beat India by an innings and 336 runs (venue and year unspecified).
- Australia beat England by an innings and 332 runs at The Gabba, Brisbane in 1946.
The remaining positions in the top 10 are filled by England, Australia, South Africa, and England again, with approximate rankings as follows:
- England beat South Africa by an innings and 328 runs (1935).
- Australia beat England by an innings and 332 runs (different series/occasion than above).
- England beat New Zealand by an innings and 317 runs.
- South Africa beat England by an innings and 316 runs.
- Australia beat West Indies by an innings and 307 runs.
This historic win by New Zealand against Zimbabwe further cements their position as a formidable Test cricket team. The team's focus now turns to their next opponents, as they look to continue their winning streak.
The historic win against Zimbabwe has added a significant sports news article to the Middle East's daily news, as the art of Test cricket showcases New Zealand's dominance in the sport. Meanwhile, Zak Foulkes' impressive performance in the match earned him both player of the match and player of the series recognitions.
