Cricket Highlights, Feb 14: Ireland tour of Zimbabwe (1st ODI) – Zimbabwe vs Ireland

ZIM vs IRE (1st ODI) – Highlights

ZIM kicked off their home ODI series against IRE in emphatic fashion, securing a dominant 49-run victory at Harare Sports Club. The match, held on February 14, 2025, saw an outstanding display from Zimbabwe’s batting lineup, led by a phenomenal innings from Brian Bennett, whose century laid the foundation for a challenging total. Ireland, despite some spirited efforts, fell short in their chase, handing Zimbabwe a well-deserved win.

Batting first, ZIM posted an imposing total of 299/5 in their 50 overs. The innings was headlined by a magnificent knock from Brian Bennett, who played a near-flawless innings of 169 off 163 balls. His innings was a masterclass in stroke-making, featuring 20 fours and three sixes, allowing Zimbabwe to set a formidable target. He found solid support from skipper Craig Ervine, who chipped in with an attacking 66 off 61 deliveries. 

The duo stitched together a crucial 136-run partnership that propelled Zimbabwe towards a commanding position. Ben Curran contributed 28 runs at the top, while minor contributions from Sikandar Raza and Wessly Madhevere ensured Zimbabwe reached a competitive total.

Ireland’s bowlers had a tough day in the field, with only Mark Adair (2/55) managing to make notable breakthroughs. Josh Little, despite being expensive, picked up a wicket, while Graham Hume and Andy McBrine also claimed one each. However, they struggled to contain Bennett’s onslaught, leading to Zimbabwe setting a daunting target.

Chasing 300, IRE got off to a disastrous start as their experienced opener and captain, Andy Balbirnie, was dismissed for a golden duck by Richard Ngarava off the very first ball. Paul Stirling attempted to provide some early impetus with a brisk 32 off 28 balls, but his departure left Ireland in trouble. 

Curtis Campher (44 off 57) and Harry Tector (39 off 78) put up a resilient fight in the middle overs, but their strike rates were unable to keep up with the required rate. Lorcan Tucker (31) and George Dockrell (34) offered some resistance, but with wickets falling at regular intervals, Ireland’s hopes of pulling off the chase faded.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers delivered a well-rounded performance, with Blessing Muzarabani leading the charge. He picked up 4 wickets for 51 runs, rattling Ireland’s batting order at crucial junctures. Richard Ngarava was equally impressive, claiming 3 wickets for 56 runs, including the vital wicket of Balbirnie. 

Wessly Madhevere and Sikandar Raza also chipped in with key breakthroughs, ensuring that Ireland never gained momentum in the chase. Despite a late push from Andy McBrine (32 off 32), Ireland was bowled out for 250 in 46 overs, falling short by 49 runs.

Zimbabwe vs Ireland Scoreboard 

Zimbabwe – 299/5 (50)

Ireland – 250 (46/50)

Result – Zimbabwe won by 49 runs

Player of the match – Brian Bennett

ZIM vs IRE Playing XIs 

Zimbabwe

Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine (c), Sikandar Raza, Wessly Madhevere, Johnathan Campbell, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Wellington Masakadza, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani.

Ireland

Andy Balbirnie, Paul Stirling (c), Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, Graham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little.

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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