Brendan Taylor marks emotional return as Zimbabwe collapse again

BULAWAYO: Zimbabwe’s top-order struggles continued in the second test against New Zealand in Bulawayo, with only returnee Brendan Taylor putting up a fight.

The home side was bowled out for just 125 runs on day one.

The Kiwi seamers, led by the experienced Matt Henry and debutant Zakary Foulkes, mercilessly tore through the Zimbabwean batting lineup.

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Henry and Foulkes lead New Zealand’s bowling

Matt Henry followed up his nine-wicket haul from the opening test with another five-for, finishing with figures of 5-40. The 32-year-old’s consistent pace and swing caused major problems for Zimbabwe’s batters throughout the innings.

Backing him up superbly was rookie paceman Zakary Foulkes. Making his test debut, Foulkes played an impressive innings by claiming four wickets and bowling really well.

He supported Henry’s charge in dismantling Zimbabwe’s batting order, showcasing his ability to lead a great partnership/

Zimbabwe’s fragile batting lineup

Sent to bat, Zimbabwe’s batting lineup fell like a house of cards. Opening batter Brian Bennet failed to get off, while Nick Welch was trapped LBW by Henry early on.

Captain Craig Ervine and senior hitter Sean Williams also fell cheaply.

The Rhinos limped to a measly 67 for 4 by the break!

Brendon Taylor shine in comeback but support lacking

Making his long-awaited return after a three-and-a-half-year ban, Brendon Taylor opened for Zimbabwe and was the lone bright spot.

The veteran right-hander played with patience to top-score 44 runs for his side, hinting at a return to his former glory.

However, his spell was soon broken. He was caught out by Henry shortly after. The dismissal exposed Zimbabwe’s middle and lower order even more. Wickets then fell like leaves in autumn.

Sikandar Raza was removed from action by a short-pitched bowling.

Low-order batter Tafadzwa Tsiga provided some resistance, ending unbeaten on 33. However, it was not enough as Zimbabwe were al out in just 49 overs.

New Zealand openers dominate

The Kiwi’s response got off to a great start as openers Devon Conway and Will Young scored an unbeaten 162 runs. Young scored 74 before eventually being dismissed. Conway remained unbeaten on 79.

New Zealand closed day one 49 runs ahead at 174-1, holding the upper hand in the two-match series.

Brendon Taylor reflects on difficult journey back

Ahead of the test, Taylor frankly shared the emotional toll of his ban. He spoke about battling anxiety, addiction and feelings of isolated following his suspension for failing to report corrupt approaches and admitted cocaine use.

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The 39-year-old thanked the Zimbabwe cricket’s management, especially MD Givemore Makoni, and his family for their unwavering support.

He described his comeback as “a debut-like feeling” and was determined to prove himself once again on the international stage.