ZIM vs NZ 2025: Tom Latham ruled out of second Test with shoulder injury | CricTracker

Tom Latham will not take part in the second Test of the two-match series between Zimbabwe and New Zealand at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo as he not been able to recover from his shoulder injury. Latham did not make it to the XI of the series-opening fixture as well, with Mitchell Santner leading the team to a nine-wicket win in his absence.

The blow for the second Test comes in addition to Nathan Smith and Will O’Rourke being ruled out injuries. Head coach Rob Walter expressed sorrow regarding Latham’s absence and mentioned the actual reason behind his non-participation for the second match.

“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,” stated Walter, as quoted by ICC.

Walter announced the inclusion of Bevon Jacobs to the Test squad as cover for Latham on the field and with the bat.

“With Tom being ruled out on the eve of the match, we needed to quickly bring in an extra pair of hands to provide fielding and batting cover. Thankfully, Bevon had been playing in Johannesburg and was able to make the short trip to Bulawayo,” added Walter.

Jacobs made his debut for the Black Caps in the recently-concluded tri-series involving Zimbabwe and South Africa. The 23-year-old has played three T20Is until now. Jacobs will join Ben Lister and Zakary Foulkes in the setup for the second Test.

New Zealand were able to get past Zimbabwe quite convincingly in the first Test at the same venue. Matt Henry was adjudged as the Player of the Match for his nine-wicket match-haul (6/39 in 15.3 overs and 3/51 in 21. overs).

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