Who is Zakary Foulkes? Kiwi Pacer Bags Four-Wicket Haul on Test Debut Against Zimbabwe

Zakary Foulkes, a promising young fast bowler from New Zealand, had a dream Test debut as he claimed a four-wicket haul against Zimbabwe at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The 23-year-old replaced William O’Rourke in the playing XI and wasted no time making his mark on the international red-ball stage.

A Bright Start in Tests

Foulkes, hailing from Christchurch, dismantled Zimbabwe’s middle order by dismissing key players including:

• Sean Williams

• Craig Ervine

• Sikandar Raza

• Trevor Gwandu

His fiery spell helped bowl out Zimbabwe for just 125 runs in the first innings. The debut performance added depth to New Zealand’s pace attack alongside the experienced Matt Henry, who also picked a five-wicket haul in the same innings.

Rise Through the Ranks

Before his Test debut, Zakary Foulkes had already played:

• 13 T20 Internationals, taking 15 wickets at an average of 24.46

• 1 ODI (vs Sri Lanka in Nov 2024, washed out due to rain)

He debuted in T20Is against Pakistan in April 2024, when many senior BlackCaps were away for the IPL.

In First-Class cricket, he has played 19 matches, picking up 57 wickets at an average of 27.15. He is also a useful lower-order batter, scoring 544 runs with a highest score of 75.

Domestic Hero Turned International Star

Foulkes has been a standout performer in New Zealand’s domestic circuit. Playing for Canterbury, he emerged as their top wicket-taker in the 2022–23 Super Smash season after stepping up in the absence of senior pacers like Matt Henry and Will Williams.

He also gained experience overseas, representing Durham and Warwickshire in the Vitality Blast, where he claimed 16 wickets in 17 matches.

What’s Next for Foulkes?

With a strong debut and consistent domestic record, Zakary Foulkes may well become a mainstay in New Zealand’s pace lineup. His ability to bowl with control and pace, along with handy batting skills, makes him a valuable all-round contributor in red-ball cricket.