Cricket Highlights, Feb 18: Ireland tour of Zimbabwe (3rd ODI) – ZIM vs IRE

ZIM vs IRE (3rd ODI) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the third and final ODI between ZIM and IRE, played at Harare Sports Club on February 18, 2025. Zimbabwe delivered a dominant performance, securing a convincing nine-wicket victory with 63 balls to spare. After Ireland set a target of 241, Zimbabwe’s batting lineup made light work of the chase, reaching 246/1 in just 39.3 overs. This emphatic win capped off a strong showing by the hosts, showcasing their batting depth and control in the series finale. 

IRE, after electing to bat first, managed to post a competitive total of 240/6 in their 50 overs. Their innings was anchored by Andy Balbirnie, who played a patient knock of 64 runs off 99 balls, and Harry Tector, who contributed 51 runs from 84 deliveries. 

Both batters tried to build a solid foundation, but Zimbabwe’s bowlers kept the scoring rate in check. Lorcan Tucker provided a much-needed boost with an attacking 61 off 54 balls, striking seven boundaries to accelerate the innings in the latter stages. Mark Adair’s quick 26* off 23 balls ensured that Ireland reached a respectable total. 

Zimbabwe’s bowling attack, led by Richard Ngarava (2/42) and Trevor Gwandu (2/44), maintained discipline throughout, restricting Ireland from posting a bigger score. Blessing Muzarabani and Wellington Masakadza also chipped in with a wicket each.

Chasing 241, ZIM made the target look effortless with a clinical batting display. Openers Brian Bennett and Ben Curran set the tone early, putting on a 124-run partnership in just under 20 overs. Bennett played aggressively, scoring 48 off 48 balls before being trapped lbw by Graham Hume. 

His innings included six boundaries, providing Zimbabwe with the perfect start. Curran, on the other hand, was rock-solid, anchoring the chase with an unbeaten 118 off 130 deliveries. He played with great control, finding the gaps consistently and ensuring there were no hiccups in the chase. Captain Craig Ervine added the finishing touches with a fluent 69* off 59 balls, striking five boundaries and three sixes. 

Their partnership ensured Zimbabwe crossed the finish line comfortably in just 39.3 overs at a run rate of 6.22. Ireland’s bowling attack lacked penetration, with only Graham Hume managing to pick up a wicket. The rest of the bowlers struggled as Zimbabwe dictated terms with ease. This emphatic victory not only sealed the match in Zimbabwe’s favor but also highlighted their dominance in the ODI series.

Ireland vs Zimbabwe Scoreboard

Ireland – 240/6 (50)

Zimbabwe – 246/1(39.3/50)

Result – Zimbabwe won by 9 wickets (with 63 balls remaining)

Player of the Match – Ben Curran

ZIM vs IRE Playing XIs

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

Zimbabwe

Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine(C), Wessly Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Johnathan Campbell, Tadiwanashe Marumani(WK), Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu

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

Want to stay ahead in the world of Cricket? Explore our comprehensive Match Highlights, insightful analysis, and the latest updates on all your favorite fixtures and more at BjSports. Don’t miss out and dive into the action now!

angelo

See Full Bio