Zimbabwe
New ZealandHarare is set for fireworks as Zimbabwe take on New Zealand in the 3rd T20I of the Tri-Series on Friday, July 18th, 2025, at 4:30 PM IST. With six losses in as many T20Is against the Kiwis, Zimbabwe will be desperate to break their losing streak and revive their campaign at the Harare Sports Club.
New Zealand, fresh off a win over South Africa, will aim to tighten their grip on the series. With key players like Devon Conway back, their batting looks sharp and ready to fire again.
For Zimbabwe, this clash is crucial. Skipper Sikandar Raza will bank on home support and a mix of veterans and youth to pull off an upset. A win here would not only restore belief but also keep their Tri-Series hopes alive.
Back Devon Conway to be the highest run-scorer for New Zealand; heβs consistent and in good form.
The betting tip is...
Top Batsman: Devon Conway
Zimbabwe
New ZealandNew Zealand have a flawless record against Zimbabwe in T20Is, winning all 6 previous encounters without a single loss or a no result. This dominance gives the Kiwis a clear edge heading into their latest Tri-Series clash.
The Blackcaps are in strong form and come into the match with a well-rounded squad. The team has seen notable changes, with Devon Conway, Mitchell Hay, Jimmy Neesham, and Tim Robinson joining the ranks. Their presence adds depth and flexibility across the lineup.
Conway brings consistency at the top, while Tim Seifert, also the wicketkeeper, offers explosive starts. Daryl Mitchell and Tim Robinson strengthen the middle order, and young talent Mitchell Hay adds balance. Bevon Jacobs is another hard-hitter who boosts their batting strength.
Glenn Phillips remains a game-changer with his power-hitting, and Mitchell Santner provides crucial all-round support with both bat and ball. With such variety and firepower, New Zealand look well-equipped to continue their unbeaten run against Zimbabwe.
New Zealand will be going with the strongest XI in this match.
Predicted Lineup: Tim Seifert (wk), Devon Conway, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Hay, Bevon Jacobs, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy
Zimbabwe will be banking heavily on captain Sikandar Raza, whose all-round brilliance remains central to their plans. His ability to lead from the front with both bat and ball will be crucial if Zimbabwe are to break their winless streak against New Zealand.
The return of pacer Richard Ngarava adds much-needed experience to the bowling attack, while Ryan Burlβs versatility makes him another key figure in both departments. Youngster Rubin Hermann has already impressed in this Tri-Series, showing signs of maturity and potential.
Zimbabweβs batting lineup looks explosive on paper, featuring the likes of Brian Bennett, Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande (wk), Sikandar Raza, and Burl. This core group provides firepower at the top and stability through the middle. If the batting clicks and the bowlers support with tight spells, Zimbabwe have the weapons to push New Zealand all the way and possibly end their losing run.
Zimbabe wil also be going with their strongest team for this match.
Predicted Lineup: 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 go into this clash as firm favourites, having never lost to Zimbabwe in T20Is and carrying solid momentum from their win over South Africa. With Devon Conway back in the side and Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, and Mitchell Santner all in good form, the Kiwis have both the depth and firepower to dominate.
That said, Zimbabwe will be hungry to break the streak, especially with home support and experienced players like Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl stepping up. Expect a fight, but the gulf in squad strength may be too much. We expect NZ to win this match.