ZIM vs SA Match Prediction and Preview: Who Will Win Today's 1st Test in Bulawayo?

Zimbabwe vs South Africa Match Preview: On Saturday, June 28, 2025, Zimbabwe will host South Africa for the first Test of the bilateral series at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The game is anticipated to be competitive despite the inconsistent previous performances of both sides. Zimbabwe, despite being underdogs, have shown resilience in the longer format, drawing their last match against South Africa and England. Meanwhile, South Africa is coming into this fixture with a morale-boosting win against Australia. The first Test may be fiercely contested since both teams are trying to get ahead in the series.

Zimbabwe vs South Africa Head-to-Head

In the Test format, Zimbabwe and South Africa have faced each other multiple times, though only one of their recent encounters ended in a draw. This rivalry has historically been dominated by South Africa, but Zimbabwe held their own in their most recent match, forcing a tense draw. Going into this match, the host team may feel more confident with this recent outcome.

Zimbabwe vs South Africa Pitch Report

Historically, Queens Sports Club's surface benefits bowlers early on by providing good seam and swing movement, particularly during the first two days. However, batting gets a little bit easier as the game goes on. Because the pitch is dry and cracking, spinners usually start to be used on Day 3. A score around 300 in the first innings can be competitive. Weather conditions are expected to be dry and sunny, ideal for uninterrupted cricket over five days.

Zimbabwe vs South Africa Playing XI Prediction

Zimbabwe Probable XI:

Vincent Masekesa, Brian Bennett, Sean Williams, Nicholas Welch, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Clive Madande (wk), Wessly Madhevere, Craig Ervine (c), Blessing Muzarabani, Tanaka Chivanga, Trevor Gwandu.

South Africa Probable XI:

Tony de Zorzi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj (c), Corbin Bosch, Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka.

Best Batsman Prediction

Craig Ervine (Zimbabwe):

The core of their batting lineup continues to be the seasoned Zimbabwean captain Craig Ervine. With 1690 runs from 52 innings at an average of 34.48, including four centuries and seven fifties, Ervine's role will be crucial if Zimbabwe wants to post a competitive total. He is an important player in this match because of his capacity to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.

Best Bowler Prediction

Kagiso Rabada (South Africa):

Though not part of the announced XI, Kagiso Rabada remains one of South Africa's most dependable Test bowlers. Rabada has claimed 336 wickets at an average of 21.74 in 71 Test matches, with his greatest totals being 7/112. His strike rate of 38.98 and economy of 3.34 make him a constant threat with the red ball.

Zimbabwe vs South Africa Match Prediction

Zimbabwe has had two draws, two losses, and one victory in their last five games going into the competition. Their most recent game ended in a draw against South Africa, suggesting their bowling attack can restrict strong sides. On the other hand, South Africa is brimming with confidence after a notable win against Australia where their bowlers turned the match around. Despite Zimbabwe's home advantage, South Africa's depth in both departments makes them the favorite going into this encounter.

Who will win today's match

Given the overall team balance, recent form, and head-to-head history, South Africa is likely to win the match. Zimbabwe may put up resistance, especially at home, but the Proteas' bowling strength and depth in batting give them the edge in this opening Test.