The third match of the ongoing T20I tri-series promises to be a high-stakes contest as hosts Zimbabwe take on New Zealand at the Harare Sports Club on Friday. The points table is starting to take shape with both teams having already faced South Africa in their respective opening games.
New Zealand come into this clash with strong momentum after securing a 21-run win over the Proteas. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing loss to South Africa. The Chevrons will not only look to recover ground in the series but also break their long-standing T20I drought against the Blackcaps.
Here's everything you need to know from match predictions and live score details to where to watch and betting tips.
Head-to-head record: Zimbabwe vs. New Zealand
Zimbabwe and New Zealand have faced each other six times in T20 internationals, with the Blackcaps holding a dominant 6-0 record. The last time these two sides met in this format was back in August 2015 at the Harare Sports Club, where New Zealand secured a comprehensive 80-run victory.
Zimbabwe are yet to register a win against the Kiwis in T20Is, making their upcoming clash not just a chance to stay alive in the tri-series but also an opportunity to break their long-standing losing streak.
- Total matches: 6
- Zimbabwe wins: 0
- New Zealand wins: 6
- Tied/No result: 0
Top players to watch: Batters & Bowlers
Batters:
Tim Robinson (New Zealand): The breakout star of the tri-series so far, Robinson scored a match-winning 75 off 57 balls against South Africa, anchoring the Kiwi innings during a middle-order collapse. His form at the top will be crucial again.
Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe): The Zimbabwe skipper led from the front in their opening match, smashing 58 off 39 balls. His experience and ability to score under pressure make him Zimbabwe’s most dependable batter.
Bowlers:
Jacob Duffy (New Zealand): Duffy was instrumental in New Zealand’s defence of 173 against South Africa, picking up 3 key wickets. His consistent line and length in the middle and death overs make him a bowler to watch.
Blessing Muzarabani (Zimbabwe): Although he didn't top the wickets chart in the first game, Muzarabani impressed in the powerplay with his pace and bounce, and will be key to Zimbabwe’s plans against the in-form Kiwi top order.
ZIM vs. NZ: betting odds & predictions: Who has the edge?
According to Dafabet, New Zealand are the favourites heading into this clash, with odds of 1.15 compared to Zimbabwe’s 5.55. The Kiwis' strong head-to-head record (6-0 in T20Is), recent form, and their convincing 21-run win over South Africa put them in a commanding position.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, remain underdogs both in the betting markets and based on performance but could offer high-reward value for risk-takers given their odds.
Odds | |
Zimbabwe | 5.55 |
New Zealand | 1.15 |
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Zimbabwe vs. New Zealand: Expected playing XIs and Team News
Zimbabwe Team News:
Zimbabwe, led by Sikandar Raza, will be eager to bounce back on home soil after a disappointing start to the tri-series. The team has the potential to turn things around with experienced campaigners like Raza, Ryan Burl, and Wesley Madhevere in the ranks.
The pace duo of Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava will look to exploit the conditions at Harare Sports Club, while the young players will aim to make the most of the opportunities in front of the home crowd.
Zimbabwe predicted playing XI: Brian Bennett, Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tashinga Musekiwa, Tony Munyonga, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu
New Zealand Team News:
New Zealand, under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, began their tri-series campaign on a winning note and will look to carry that momentum forward. The return of Devon Conway, replacing the injured Finn Allen, adds experience at the top alongside Tim Seifert.
The middle order consists of power-hitters like Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Jimmy Neesham, providing more depth and firepower. On the bowling front, the combination of Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, and Ish Sodhi offers a balanced attack capable of adapting to Harare's conditions. The Kiwis appear well-rounded and focused on securing another victory.
New Zealand Playing XI: Tim Seifert (wk), Devon Conway, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Hay, Bevon Jacobs, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy
ZIM vs. NZ live scorecard: Zimbabwe Tri-Series
To follow the action between Zimbabwe vs. New Zealand 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 Zimbabwe vs. New Zealand live
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
- Date & Time (IST): 18 July 2025, 4:30 PM
- Live Broadcast and Streaming Details: Fancode (app & website)
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