New Zealand crushes Zimbabwe to seal Test series sweep

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe — New Zealand thrashed Zimbabwe by an innings and 359 runs Saturday to complete a 2-0 Test series sweep, handing the hosts their heaviest-ever defeat.

Debutant Zakary Foulkes took 5-37 as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 117 in their second innings at Queens Sports Club. Nick Welch offered the only resistance with an unbeaten 47 off 71 balls.

Earlier, New Zealand declared overnight at 601-3, with Rachin Ravindra (165 not out), Devon Conway (153) and Henry Nicholls (150 not out) piling on the runs.

Matt Henry struck twice early, removing Brian Bennett for a duck and Brendan Taylor for seven to leave Zimbabwe reeling at 11-2. Foulkes tore through the middle and lower order, while Henry finished with match figures of 7-56.

Zimbabwe’s previous worst Test loss was by an innings and 301 runs against New Zealand in Napier in 2012.