New Zealand made it two wins in two games as they thrashed Zimbabwe by eight wickets in the third match of the ongoing T20I tri-series in Harare on Friday. Chasing a target of 121, the Black Caps got over the line in just 13.5 overs led by Devon Conway’s fifty and a clinical all-round bowling performance.
New Zealand’s bowlers stuck to their plans and never allowed Zimbabwe’s batters to break free. Matt Henry was outstanding with the ball, finishing with figures of 3/26 to restrict the hosts to 120/7.
In reply, New Zealand made the target look like a formality. Devon Conway anchored the chase with an unbeaten 59-run knock. Rachin Ravindra (30 runs off 19 balls) and Daryl Mitchell (26* runs off 19 balls) provided useful support to cap off a complete performance.
Matt Henry, Devon Conway Star in New Zealand's One-Sided Victory
New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl. Zimbabwe got off to a steady start with Wessly Madhevere (36 runs off 32 balls) and Brian Bennett (21 runs off 20 balls) adding 37 runs for the opening wicket, which ended up being the highest partnership of the innings. However, once that stand was broken by Matt Henry, wickets began to tumble at regular intervals.
Mitchell Santner got the big wicket of Sikandar Raza, who struggled throughout his 18-ball stay for 12 runs. None of the middle-order batters could take control, with only Madhevere offering some resistance. Zimbabwe eventually limped to 120 for 7 in their 20 overs.
New Zealand’s chase started with a small hiccup as Tim Seifert fell early for just three runs. But Conway and Ravindra quickly put the chase back on track with a solid 59-run partnership. Conway played the role of sheet anchor. Ravindra was the aggressor and smashed 30 off 19 balls with four fours and a six.
After his dismissal, Mitchell joined Conway and the duo made sure there were no more hiccups, adding 58 more runs in quick time to seal the win with more than six overs to spare.
Points Table: New Zealand Take the Lead
With this comprehensive win, New Zealand have jumped to the top of the points table in the Zimbabwe T20I tri-series. They won both of their matches.
On the other hand, Zimbabwe find themselves in trouble. With two losses in as many games, they are desperately looking for a win.
South Africa have played two games so far and sit second in the table. They will look to challenge New Zealand for the top spot in the coming days.
Zimbabwe will face South Africa in the next match scheduled on July 20 at Harare Sports Club.
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