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Zak Foulkes Earns Maiden Test Call-Up as Nathan Smith Ruled Out of Zimbabwe Series
Nathan Smith Sidelined After Injury in First Test
New Zealand all-rounder Nathan Smith has been ruled out of the second and final Test against Zimbabwe after sustaining an abdominal strain during the opening match in Bulawayo. The injury occurred on Day 2, when Smith was batting and felt discomfort in his stomach. He was on 22 runs at the time and eventually had to retire hurt.
Subsequent MRI scans revealed a muscle strain in the abdominal region, sidelining the promising all-rounder for an estimated 2–4 weeks. The setback forces the 25-year-old to miss what could have been another key appearance in the two-match series.
Zak Foulkes Gets First Test Opportunity
In Smith’s absence, Zak Foulkes, the talented seam-bowling all-rounder, has been called up to the Test squad for the first time in his career. Foulkes recently participated in the T20I tri-series involving Zimbabwe and South Africa, and his performances have now earned him a chance in the longer format.
This Test call-up represents a major step forward for the 21-year-old, who has shown promise in both domestic cricket and New Zealand A fixtures. Foulkes is known for his control with the ball and ability to contribute valuable runs down the order—traits that make him a like-for-like replacement for Smith.
Related: New Zealand clinch first Test with dominant nine-wicket win over Zimbabwe
Ben Lister Added as Cover for Will O’Rourke
New Zealand’s injury concerns don’t end with Nathan Smith. Young left-arm pacer Will O’Rourke also reported back stiffness on Day 3 of the first Test in Bulawayo. While O’Rourke hasn’t been officially ruled out of the second Test, his participation remains uncertain and will depend on further medical assessment.
As a precautionary measure, Ben Lister has been brought into the squad as cover. Lister, who made his Test debut earlier this year, provides additional depth and experience in case O’Rourke fails to recover in time. His inclusion is seen as a proactive move by the New Zealand management to maintain bowling firepower for the series finale.
New Zealand Lead Series 1-0 After Commanding Victory
The Kiwis hold a 1-0 lead in the series following their nine-wicket victory in the first Test. Dominant performances from the pace attack, led by Matt Henry and Trent Boult, alongside solid batting from Kane Williamson and Tom Latham, paved the way for an easy win.
With one game remaining in the series, New Zealand will be looking to secure a clean sweep against Zimbabwe. The second Test is scheduled to begin on August 7, once again at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
For Zimbabwe, this match is an opportunity to bounce back and challenge a New Zealand side that is managing squad changes due to injuries.
🌐 For more updates, visit New Zealand Cricket’s official website
