Published: 4 hours ago

The return of former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor for the second Test against New Zealand at Queens Sports Club sparked hope for the home side, but day one exposed the huge challenges they face.

Taylor, playing his first Test since 2021 after a long ban, was the top scorer with a gritty 44 runs, showing glimpses of his old brilliance and standing as the lone resistance against a relentless New Zealand pace attack. However, his dismissal on an ill-judged backfoot drive, caught easily at extra cover, symbolised Zimbabwe's ongoing batting struggles.

The hosts were bowled out for a mere 125 runs, their innings collapsing soon after Taylor's exit. The highest partnership was just 29 runs, highlighting their inability to build lasting partnerships—a glaring weakness that continues to hamper the team.

New Zealand's bowlers dominated, with Matt Henry claiming his second consecutive five-wicket haul of the series, finishing with impressive figures of 5-40. Debutant Zakary Foulkes was equally effective on his first outing, taking 4-38. The pair exploited early movement and disciplined lines to keep Zimbabwe's batsmen under constant pressure.

Zimbabwe's decision to bat first on a pitch offering early assistance to bowlers backfired badly. Though the tail wagged briefly - Tafadzwa Tsiga's composed 33 and a 25-run last-wicket stand with Tanaka Chivanga offered some resistance - it was too little, too late.

In reply, New Zealand openers Devon Conway and Will Young made batting look effortless. They put together a commanding 162-run partnership before Young's dismissal just before stumps. By the close of play, New Zealand were 174 for 1, leading by 49 runs and firmly in control of the match.

Reflecting on his return and the team's performance, Taylor stressed the importance of patience, belief, and trust in preparation.

"What I've witnessed is that they're willing to learn and train hard—they do have the skills," he said. "It's about backing them and giving them the belief that when it gets tough, just hang in there."

On his comeback, Taylor said, "It was special. I thought three or four years ago this would never happen. It was a day of real appreciation, being with friends and representing my country—it was surreal."

He added, "I am a man of God, and He gives me strength to overcome the worst. He has given me another opportunity to play for Zimbabwe, and I am incredibly thankful. I was focused on staying present and taking it one ball at a time."

Despite Taylor's valiant effort, Zimbabwe must address their deep-seated batting issues if they are to avoid another heavy defeat against a clinical New Zealand side.
- newsday