• Devon Conway broke his century drought with an unbeaten 110 in the second Test against Zimbabwe.

  • New Zealand dominate Zimbabwe on Day 2 thanks to Matt Henry’s incisive bowling.

Fans erupt as Devon Conway hammers a classy century against Zimbabwe on Day 2 of ZIM vs NZ second Test
Devon Conway hammers classy century against Zimbabwe on Day 2 of ZIM vs NZ second Test (Image source: X)

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The second Test match between Zimbabwe and New Zealand, taking place at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo witnessed a thrilling display of class and control from the visitors. Building on their commanding first Test victory, New Zealand continued their dominance with a steadfast batting and bowling performance that swept Zimbabwe into a tight corner. The standout moment of Day 2 was undoubtedly Devon Conway’s spectacular century—a masterful and much-needed innings that brought New Zealand to a commanding position in the match.

Devon Conway shines bright with a spectacular ton on Day 2

After a patchy form spell that saw him dropped from the Test side, Conway ended his century drought in the most glorious fashion. On Day 2, Conway reached a magnificent 100 with a crisp, firm straight drive to the left of mid-off off Zimbabwe’s pace bowler Blessing Muzarabani. This was his fifth Test century and first since January 2, 2023, marking the end of a difficult dry spell for the talented opener. The milestone was greeted with an eruption of applause from the crowd as Conway removed his helmet and soaked in the adulation—a testament to his resilience and craft.

Conway’s innings was composed, powerful, and highly effective, boasting 14 boundaries in his unbeaten 110 off 162 balls. He played with confidence off the back foot, expertly negotiating Zimbabwe’s seam attack. This innings underlined his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when the moment called for it, consolidating a strong foundation for New Zealand’s first innings. His partnership with Will Young was pivotal, the pair putting on 162 runs for the opening wicket—New Zealand’s third-highest opening stand against Zimbabwe and the first century partnership for the opening pair since 2022.

Also READ: ZIM vs NZ: Fans react as New Zealand dominate Day 1 with Matt Henry’s fifer and openers’ commanding stand in the second Test

Here’s how fans reacted:

New Zealand’s commanding grip over Zimbabwe in the second Test

Zimbabwe’s innings had already crumbled under the pressure from New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, led by the fiery Matt Henry. Henry ripped through the Zimbabwe batting lineup with a devastating 5 for 40, supported by debutants Zakary Foulkes (4-38), Jacob Duffy, and Matthew Fisher. Zimbabwe was bowled out for a mere 125 runs, struggling with technique and unable to build partnerships. Zimbabwe’s experienced batter Brendan Taylor top-scored with 44 but could not stem the collapse. The rest of the side faltered under the accurate New Zealand seam attack, which exploited early movement and kept tight lines throughout the innings.

In reply, New Zealand’s openers quickly surpassed Zimbabwe’s total and moved into a strong position by stumps on Day 1 with 174 runs for 1 wicket. With Conway unbeaten on 79 alongside the nightwatchman Jacob Duffy, New Zealand secured a 49-run lead. On Day 2, this dominance translated into a bigger score of 235/2 wickets after 52.2 overs till Drinks of the first session, leading Zimbabwe by 110 runs. The calm and composed batting from Conway and Young set the tone, while the rest of the batting order awaited their turn with a solid base laid.

Also WATCH: Craig Ervine grabs a stunning juggling catch to dismiss Rachin Ravindra on Day 2 of the first Test

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.