Predicting ZIM’s Playing XI for the 3rd Match against NZ in the Twenty20 Tri-Series 2025

Following a disappointing opening game against South Africa, Zimbabwe must now get back to winning ways against a well-drilled New Zealand outfit in their third match of the 2025 T20 Tri-Series. An inconsistent performance saw them lose the first game, and with pressure building, captain Sikandar Raza will need his team to step up. Based on recent form and conditions, here’s the XI we expect to take the field in this key clash.

Openers

Brian Bennett showed some fight at the top, playing shots against a stingy South African attack and managing 30 off 28 balls. While he didn’t play explosively, his calmness and strokeplay, and shot selection made him one of the few Zimbabwean batters who looked assured at the crease. 

Overall, I think even with the scratchy start in the last match, Wessly Madhevere deserves his chance. Though the hit-wicket was a stroke of misfortune, Madhevere’s blend of composure and attacking flair still makes him a key figure at the top. Zimbabwe needs to score at the top, and he has proven in the past that he can get moving once he gets into a rhythm. 

Middle Order 

Sikandar Raza, the captain, once again demonstrated why he is the heart of this Zimbabwean set-up. His unbeaten 54 off 38 balls was a captain’s knock – well-constructed, aggressive when necessary, and full of intent. Raza not only provides runs but also brings calmness to a middle order that looks fragile at the best of times. 

Ryan Burl at No. 5 played a quick 29 off 20 and looked dangerous before he fell. His counter-attacking role fits perfectly into the middle overs when the team needs to rebuild but keep the scoreboard ticking. Burl can also take spinners over the fence and has the temperament to deal with pressure, which Zimbabwe needs in the middle.

All-Rounders 

Although Tashinga Musekiwa showed some glimpses of quality, with his brief innings of 9 runs off 8 balls, Zimbabwe could worse than promoted their more seasoned all-rounder, Tony Munyonga, up the order. Munyonga can part-time off-spin a ball, and with his explosive play in the death overs, provides Zimbabwe an alternative.

No ifs, no buts—Sikandar Raza is Zimbabwe’s key all-round weapon. Raza’s bowling did not work in the last game, but Raza’s spin is still valid, especially on a slow Harare pitch, where changing the pace of the game could make the difference between win and loss. 

Bowlers – The Wicket Takers to Watch

It wasn’t much, but Ngarava’s fiery 3-fer gave Zimbabwe just a sliver of belief against a dominant South Africa. He has a left-arm angle, and it is his yorkers and slower balls at pace off that quickly, which make him a danger throughout the Powerplay and death.

Trevor Gwandu is worth keeping on the team after he took 2 for 15 in a tidy performance. His variations, with slow and cut deliveries, were useful on the Harare pitch. If Gwandu can maintain the same discipline he has probably has the potential to be Zimbabwe’s silent assassin against a technically proficient New Zealand.

Zimbabwe was regarded as the underdog entering the series but produced periods of brilliance against South Africa, showing pockets of latent potential. Zimbabwe can be disruptive with Raza stabilizing the middle order, Ngarava and Gwandu were effective with the ball, and Bennett a threat at the top of the order.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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