New Zealand will once again be without Tom Latham as they head into the second and final Test against Zimbabwe, starting Thursday, August 7 in Bulawayo. The experienced opener hasn’t recovered in time from a left shoulder injury that had already kept him out of the series opener. This is a big blow for the Black Caps as Latham is a key figure in their Test lineup.
Rob Walter’s Disappointment Over Latham’s Absence
Head coach Rob Walter confirmed the news of Latham’s unavailability, expressing his disappointment:
“It’s hugely disappointing to lose Tom again…He’s been working hard and had been tracking well towards the second Test but unfortunately today he couldn’t pass his fitness tests.”
“He’s extremely gutted he won’t be able to take the park and we’re really feeling for him,” he added.
Santner to Continue as Captain Amidst Injury Concerns
With Latham still unavailable, Mitchell Santner will continue to captain the side. Santner led the Black Caps to a dominant nine-wicket win in the first Test at the same venue and will now look to wrap up the series in similar fashion. But New Zealand’s injury concerns don’t stop with Latham. Fast bowler Will O’Rourke and all-rounder Nathan Smith are also ruled out of the second Test. Both played in the series opener but picked up injuries that now leave gaps in the squad.
New Zealand’s Injury Crisis and Bevon Jacobs’ Call-Up
In response to the injury crisis, New Zealand has called up uncapped batter Bevon Jacobs. The 22-year-old made his T20I debut just last month during the tri-series featuring Zimbabwe and South Africa. Now, Jacobs gets a chance to be part of the Test group. His inclusion adds additional depth to New Zealand’s squad as they prepare for the decider.
NZ’s Strong Performance in the First Test
Despite the injury setbacks, New Zealand dominated the first Test in Bulawayo, bundling Zimbabwe out for 184 and 127 in their two innings. Matt Henry and Santner were the stars with the ball, taking key wickets and putting pressure on Zimbabwe throughout the match. Devon Conway’s calm 84 laid the platform for an easy chase, and New Zealand comfortably cruised to victory. With one more game to go, the Black Caps will hope to carry forward their momentum and seal the series in Bulawayo despite missing several key names.
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