The New Zealand vs Zimbabwe timeline reflects a story of contrast and hope. While New Zealand has historically dominated the rivalry, Zimbabwe continues to chase a breakthrough. This timeline explores iconic matches, key moments, and the ongoing 2025 Test series that brings renewed interest in this bilateral cricketing contest. As the two teams face each other again in a red-ball series after nearly a decade, fans are eager to witness if Zimbabwe can turn the tide or if the Black Caps will extend their unbeaten run.
Overall New Zealand vs Zimbabwe Match Glimpses & Schedules 2025
In July–August 2025, Zimbabwe is hosting New Zealand for a two-match Test series at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. This is their first Test meeting since 2016. The series is especially significant as Zimbabwe eyes its first-ever Test victory against New Zealand.
2025 New Zealand Tour of Zimbabwe – Test Schedule
| Date | Test Match | Match | Venue | City | Local Time | Result |
| July 30 – August 3, 2025 | 1st Test | Queens Sports Club | Bulawayo | 10:00 AM | 1:30 PM | Ongoing |
| August 7 – August 11, 2025 | 2nd Test | Queens Sports Club | Bulawayo | 10:00 AM | 1:30 PM | Upcoming |
New Zealand Cricket Team Squad (2025)
- Tom Latham (Captain)
- Tom Blundell
- Devon Conway
- Jacob Duffy
- Matt Fisher
- Matt Henry
- Daryl Mitchell
- Henry Nicholls
- Will O’Rourke
- Ajaz Patel
- Michael Bracewell
- Rachin Ravindra
- Mitchell Santner
- Nathan Smith
- Will Young
Zimbabwe Cricket Team Squad (2025)
- Craig Ervine (Captain)
- Brian Bennett
- Tanaka Chivanga
- Ben Curran
- Trevor Gwandu
- Roy Kaia
- Tanunurwa Makoni
- Clive Madande (Wicketkeeper)
- Vincent Masekesa
- Wellington Masakadza
- Blessing Muzarabani
- Newman Nyamhuri
- Sikandar Raza
- Tafadzwa Tsiga (Wicketkeeper)
- Nick Welch
- Sean Williams
New Zealand vs Zimbabwe Timeline
The cricketing battles between New Zealand and Zimbabwe began in the early 1990s, with New Zealand maintaining a clear upper hand across formats. In Test cricket, New Zealand has won all 11 encounters so far, with the rest ending in draws. Zimbabwe is still searching for its first win in this format.
2025 Test Series – A New Chapter
The ongoing 2025 Test series marks Zimbabwe’s return to facing New Zealand in the red-ball format after nearly nine years. The first Test began on July 30 at Bulawayo’s Queens Sports Club. This ground is known for its spin-friendly conditions and low bounce.
While the match is ongoing, New Zealand has already showcased strong intent through disciplined bowling and steady batting performances. Zimbabwe, playing in front of a home crowd, is relying heavily on senior players like Raza and Williams to stabilize innings and put up resistance.
Key Highlights So Far:
- Michael Bracewell: Recently added to the squad, showing his all-round value with both bat and ball.
- Ajaz Patel: Using the turning conditions in Bulawayo effectively to challenge Zimbabwe’s middle order.
- Sean Williams: A key figure for Zimbabwe, playing his 90th Test match and leading the resistance.
Iconic Test Battles in the New Zealand vs Zimbabwe Timeline
One of the most memorable series between these two came in 2005, when New Zealand defeated Zimbabwe convincingly in both Tests played in Harare and Bulawayo. The first Test resulted in a massive innings-and-294-run win for New Zealand — one of their biggest victories.
Another notable encounter was in 2011–12, when New Zealand hosted Zimbabwe and crushed them by an innings and 301 runs at Napier. This match remains New Zealand’s biggest win in Test history, and Zimbabwe’s worst defeat in the format.
Despite the one-sided nature of their Test history, Zimbabwe has occasionally shown resilience, particularly in the limited-overs format, where they have managed 9 ODI wins over New Zealand.
Wrapping Up
The New Zealand vs Zimbabwe cricket timeline reveals a rivalry that has largely been dominated by one side but still holds promise and moments of grit. While New Zealand has controlled proceedings across formats, Zimbabwe continues to fight for its place and moments of pride. The 2025 Test series offers a renewed opportunity for Zimbabwe to script history and for New Zealand to reinforce its supremacy. As fans watch the ongoing matches, the rivalry continues to evolve with each session.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Has Zimbabwe ever won a Test match against New Zealand?
No, Zimbabwe is yet to win a Test against New Zealand. All their previous encounters have either ended in defeat or draws.
Q2. When did Zimbabwe last play a Test series against New Zealand?
The last Test series was in 2016, also held in Zimbabwe, where New Zealand won both matches convincingly.
Q3. How do the two teams compare in limited-overs formats?
In ODIs, New Zealand has won 27 out of 38 matches, while Zimbabwe has 9 wins. In T20Is, New Zealand holds a perfect record, winning all 8 matches played so far.
Q4. Who are key players to watch in the 2025 series?
For New Zealand, Tom Latham, Ajaz Patel, and Michael Bracewell are key figures. For Zimbabwe, much depends on Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, and Blessing Muzarabani.