What’s Next for New Zealand as Latham Misses First Test Against Zimbabwe?
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Synopsis
In a major setback for New Zealand cricket, captain Tom Latham will miss the first Test against Zimbabwe due to injury. Mitchell Santner steps up as captain, aiming to lead the team to victory. Will Latham recover in time for the next Test? Stay tuned for the latest updates on this thrilling cricket series.
Key Takeaways
- Tom Latham is out due to a shoulder injury.
- Mitchell Santner steps in as the new Test captain.
- The series is not part of the World Test Championship.
- New Zealand aims to recover from this setback.
- First Test starts in Bulawayo on Wednesday.
New Delhi, July 29 (NationPress) New Zealand’s Test captain Tom Latham has been sidelined for the opening Test against Zimbabwe due to a shoulder injury. Mitchell Santner, the limited-overs captain, will step in as the leader, marking his debut as the 32nd captain of New Zealand's Test team.
Latham incurred the injury while fielding during a T20 match for Birmingham earlier this month and has not achieved sufficient recovery to be included in the lineup for the series opener on Wednesday in Bulawayo. He will remain with the squad, optimistic about his availability for the second Test beginning on August 7.
Having 30 Test caps, Santner takes charge after a successful T20I Tri-Series in Harare, where New Zealand concluded the five-match series undefeated.
New Zealand’s head coach Rob Walter expressed that Latham’s talents and leadership will be sorely missed.
"It’s incredibly disappointing for Tom to miss the first Test, both as captain and a key player on the team," Walter stated. "Losing your captain, who is a world-class opening batter and a fantastic team player, is never ideal. However, we will work diligently to have him ready for the second Test.”
Walter added, “We will continue to evaluate whether a replacement player is required, but currently, we are hopeful for his timely recovery.”
Walter is confident that the team is in capable hands with Santner.
“Mitch performed exceptionally with the T20 squad during the recent series. His strategic approach was excellent, and he possesses a profound understanding of the game.
"Though the formats differ, he has the respect of the players and will be backed by experienced Test cricketers, so I am confident he will excel.”
The two-match series is not part of the World Test Championship (WTC) and will mark New Zealand's first Test tour of Zimbabwe since 2016. The 2021 WTC champions are set to commence their WTC cycle with a three-Test home series against the West Indies in December.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the impact of Tom Latham's absence on the New Zealand team. His leadership and batting prowess are pivotal. However, the appointment of Mitchell Santner brings a fresh perspective. This series against Zimbabwe is an opportunity for the team to showcase depth and resilience, and we look forward to seeing how they adapt.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Tom Latham not playing in the first Test?
Tom Latham is sidelined due to a shoulder injury incurred during a T20 match in Birmingham.
Who will captain New Zealand in Latham's absence?
Mitchell Santner will lead the New Zealand team as the 32nd Test captain.
When does the second Test start?
The second Test is scheduled to begin on August 7.
Is this Test series part of the World Test Championship?
No, this two-match series is not part of the World Test Championship.
When did New Zealand last tour Zimbabwe for a Test series?
New Zealand's last Test tour of Zimbabwe was in 2016.
