The Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series 2025 continues to heat up as table-toppers New Zealand take on second-placed South Africa in the fifth match of the tournament, set to be played at the Harare Sports Club on July 22 at 4:30 p.m. IST.
The bookmakers fancy New Zealand for this one, with the Kiwis given a 61% chance of winning. Click here to bet with Melbet!
New Zealand have been dominant so far in this series, winning both of their matches. In their most recent outing against Zimbabwe, they comfortably chased down a target of 120, securing victory by eight wickets.
Devon Conway starred with the bat, scoring a fluent 59 off 40 balls, while Rachin Ravindra added a quick 30 off 19. On the bowling front, Matt Henry led the charge with 3 wickets, supported by Michael Bracewell and Adam Milne with one wicket each.
South Africa, meanwhile, have claimed two wins from three games. Their last match also came against Zimbabwe, where they clinched a convincing seven-wicket victory.
Here's our latest predictions for New Zealand vs. South Africa, including expected lineups, betting tips, best odds and where to find the live scorecard, with both sides stacked with match-winners and in solid form.
Head-to-head record: New Zealand vs. South Africa in T20Is
In T20 Internationals, South Africa hold a clear edge over New Zealand in head-to-head encounters. Out of the 16 matches played between the two sides, South Africa have emerged victorious in 11, while New Zealand have won five.
This dominant record gives the Proteas a psychological advantage, although recent form suggests a closely contested battle is on the cards.
- Total matches: 16
- New Zealand wins: 5
- South Africa wins: 11
- Tied/No result: 0
PITCH REPORT: Get the latest pitch report from Harare Sports Club here
Top players to watch: Batters & Bowlers
Batters to watch
- Devon Conway (NZ): A technically sound and aggressive opener, Conway has been in fine touch during the ongoing tri-series, including a composed half-century in the last match. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a healthy strike rate makes him a key player for New Zealand at the top of the order.
- Rubin Hermann (SA): Hermann impressed with a blazing 63 off 36 balls in South Africa's last outing. His ability to shift momentum quickly in the middle overs will be pivotal in South Africa’s quest to dominate the Kiwi bowlers.
Bowlers to watch
- Matt Henry (NZ): Henry has led New Zealand’s pace attack with discipline and precision. His three-wicket haul against Zimbabwe showcased his knack for picking up early breakthroughs, which will be crucial against a strong South African lineup.
- Nandre Burger (SA): A left-arm pacer known for his pace and bounce, Burger brings aggression to the Proteas bowling unit. His ability to exploit the Harare pitch with early movement and sharp spells makes him a key threat to New Zealand’s top order.
NZ vs. SA betting odds & predictions: Who has the edge?
According to Melbet, New Zealand are the favorites for this highly anticipated match, offering odds of 1.63, compared to 2.27 for South Africa. The Black Caps' unbeaten run in the tri-series, including a comfortable win over the Proteas earlier, justifies their favored status.
However, with both teams already in the final and playing with confidence, this encounter could be more evenly matched than the odds suggest.
Odds* | |
New Zealand | |
South Africa |
*Odds correct at time of publish
TSN’s Top 3 Predictions:
- Devon Conway to score 30+ runs: The New Zealand opener has been in great touch and is expected to anchor the innings once again.
- Matt Henry to take 2+ wickets: The in-form pacer has been effective with the new ball and remains a consistent wicket-taking threat.
- Rubin Hermann to hit 2+ sixes: After a blistering 63 in the last game, Hermann's aggressive intent makes him a strong pick for clearing the ropes.
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NZ vs. SA: Expected lineups and team news
New Zealand
New Zealand have continued their dominant form in T20Is this year and head into this clash on a high, having already qualified for the final of the tri-series with back-to-back wins over Zimbabwe and South Africa. They are expected to stick with a stable playing XI.
Devon Conway has been in excellent touch at the top of the order, while Tim Seifert, though inconsistent, will continue as his opening partner. The middle order features a strong core of all-rounders including Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell, who provide both stability and firepower. Bevon Jacobs, a promising debutant in this series, is likely to retain his spot.
The Kiwis also have depth in their batting with the inclusion of Mark Chapman and captain Mitchell Santner. Their pace attack will be spearheaded by Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy and Adam Milne, while Santner, Bracewell, and Ravindra will share spin responsibilities.
- New Zealand (predicted playing XI): Tim Seifert (WK), Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (C), Bevon Jacobs, Adam Milne, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry
South Africa
South Africa come into this fixture on the back of a comfortable victory over Zimbabwe, which helped them seal a spot in the final. However, they will be looking to avenge their earlier loss to New Zealand in the group stage.
While the top-order remains shaky with Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Reeza Hendricks struggling for runs, the middle order has been rock solid. Rassie van der Dussen and Rubin Hermann impressed with a crucial partnership in the last game, and Dewald Brevis continues to deliver with the bat.
The all-round duo of George Linde and Corbin Bosch adds depth to both batting and bowling, giving South Africa good balance. In the bowling department, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi, and Andile Simelane are expected to handle pace duties, while Nqabayomzi Peter leads the spin attack.
- South Africa (predicted playing XI): Reeza Hendricks, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (WK), Dewald Brevis, Rassie van der Dussen (C), Rubin Hermann, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Andile Simelane, Nqabayomzi Peter, Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger
NZ vs. SA live scorecard: T20I
To follow the action between New Zealand vs. South Africa live, you can make use of the live scorecard feature on Parimatch's website.
Navigate to the game of your choice and click the scorecard icon to follow along, and bet live with the action with a trusted site.
Where to watch NZ vs. SA T20I in India
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
- Date & Time (IST): 22 July 2025, 4:30 PM
- Live Broadcast and Streaming Details: Fancode (app and website)
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