6.2-Foot Kiwi Pacer Matt Henry Destroys Zimbabwe with 6-Wicket Haul in First Test

New Zealand’s tour of Zimbabwe continues to be dominant as the Kiwis carried their T20I tri-series momentum into the first Test match at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. The spotlight of Day 1 belonged to 6.2-foot-tall fast bowler Matt Henry, who ripped through Zimbabwe's batting lineup with a fiery spell of pace bowling, claiming 6 wickets for just 39 runs.

Thanks to Henry's heroics, Zimbabwe were bundled out for a paltry 149 runs in their first innings. This marked Henry’s fifth five-wicket haul in Test cricket and firmly placed New Zealand in control. By stumps, New Zealand's openers had already racked up 90 runs without loss, with Devon Conway remaining unbeaten on a fluent half-century and Will Young contributing 41 runs.

Earlier in the day, Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine won the toss and opted to bat first. However, the hosts failed to capitalize on the decision, as Henry struck early, dismissing key players like Brian Bennett (6), Ben Curran (13), and Nick Welch (27). Nathan Smith supported well from the other end, picking up 3 wickets. Only Ervine (39) and wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga (30) showed some resistance.

With a dominant performance on Day 1, New Zealand have taken a commanding position in the match. Zimbabwe, struggling with form in the longer format this year, now face an uphill task to stay alive in the game.