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Zimbabwe and Ireland shift focus to the shorter format as they begin a three-match T20I series at Harare Sports Club. The hosts secured a 2-1 ODI series victory and will look to continue their dominance in familiar conditions. However, T20 cricket often levels the playing field, and Ireland will be eager to bounce back after their recent setbacks.
With Sikandar Raza leading Zimbabwe and Paul Stirling captaining Ireland, both teams have game-changers capable of turning the match on its head. The visitors will need to overcome their inconsistency in T20Is, while Zimbabwe will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and winning momentum.
Match Details
| Match | Zimbabwe vs Ireland – 1st T20I |
|---|---|
| Date | 4th February 2025 |
| Time | 5:30 PM Local Time |
| Venue | Harare Sports Club, Harare |
| Format | T20I (20 overs per side) |
Teams Preview
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe enter the T20I series with a well-rounded squad featuring a mix of experience and emerging talent. Their batting lineup is built around stability at the top and firepower in the middle order. Brian Bennett and Dion Myers are likely to open, providing a solid foundation while keeping the scoreboard ticking.
Sikandar Raza will be the key player in the middle order, not just with the bat but also with the ball. His ability to play spin and pace equally well makes him Zimbabwe’s biggest asset. Wessly Madhevere will also be crucial, offering reliability and the ability to accelerate when needed.
On the bowling front, Zimbabwe will rely on the pace duo of Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava to make early inroads. Both bowlers have the ability to generate bounce and movement, which could trouble Ireland’s top order. Trevor Gwandu and Wellington Masakadza will provide support, with Raza expected to chip in with crucial overs.
Zimbabwe Predicted Playing XI:
Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Wessly Madhevere, Sikandar Raza (c), Tashinga Musekiwa, Tony Munyonga, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu, Richard Ngarava
Ireland Preview
Ireland will be eager to turn things around in the T20I series after a disappointing ODI campaign. Their T20 form has been inconsistent, with flashes of brilliance but also unexpected setbacks.
Paul Stirling will be the key man at the top of the order. His experience and aggressive batting style make him a dangerous player in the powerplay. Harry Tector and George Dockrell will provide stability in the middle order, while Curtis Campher and Lorcan Tucker will be tasked with finishing the innings strongly.
With the ball, Ireland have a well-rounded attack featuring Mark Adair, Josh Little, and Graham Hume. Adair’s ability to swing the ball and generate movement off the pitch will be crucial, while Little’s pace can trouble Zimbabwe’s batters. Matthew Humphreys and Barry McCarthy provide additional options in the bowling department.
Ireland Predicted Playing XI:
Paul Stirling (c), Harry Tector, George Dockrell, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Mark Adair, Graham Hume, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Lorcan Tucker |
| Batters | Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Dion Myers, Brian Bennett |
| All-rounders | Sikandar Raza, Curtis Campher, Wessly Madhevere |
| Bowlers | Blessing Muzarabani, Mark Adair, Josh Little |
Pitch Report
The Harare Sports Club surface is expected to provide a good balance between bat and ball. The pitch has a firm base with consistent bounce, which should allow batters to play their shots freely. However, spinners will also get some assistance, especially in the middle overs.
- Average First Innings Score: 157
- Highest T20I Score at Venue: 234/2 (India vs Zimbabwe, 2024)
- Pace Bowling: Some movement early on, but conditions favor batters later
- Spin Bowling: Will play a role in the middle overs
Toss Prediction: Bowl First
With cloudy weather and the possibility of rain later in the match, teams are likely to field first to take advantage of favorable bowling conditions early on.
Winning Prediction
Zimbabwe’s strong home record and recent ODI series win give them a slight edge, but Ireland have players who can turn the game in their favor. The visitors have a decent track record at Harare, winning three of their last six T20Is here.
However, Zimbabwe’s balanced squad, combined with the all-round impact of Sikandar Raza, makes them favorites for this contest.
Prediction: Zimbabwe to win!
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