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Ireland is set to begin their all-format tour of Zimbabwe with a one-off Test match in Bulawayo. Having gained Test status in 2018, Ireland has played just 9 matches, but their recent victories suggest they are finding their feet in the longest format.
Zimbabwe, despite being an associate member for many years, has played far fewer Test matches compared to full-member nations. The hosts will be eager to make a strong start and put pressure on their opponents.
With both teams eyeing a crucial win, this Test promises to be an exciting contest.
Match Details
| Match | Zimbabwe vs Ireland, Only Test |
|---|---|
| Venue | Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo |
| Date & Time | February 8-12, 2025, 9:30 AM Local Time |
| Format | Test Match (Ireland Tour of Zimbabwe 2025) |
| Streaming | FanCode (India), SuperSport (Africa) |
Teams Preview
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe enters this Test under the leadership of Craig Ervine, with several young faces in the squad. Joylord Gumbie and Benjamin Curran will open, with T Kaitano expected to bat at No. 3. The middle order will be anchored by Ervine and Sean Williams, while Nick Welch and John Campbell could make their debuts.
Bowling will be led by Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava, both known for their pace and accuracy. Newman Nyamburi and Victor Nyauchi will support them, while Williams and Kaitano add variety in the spin department.
Zimbabwe will need early breakthroughs with the ball and solid batting performances from their experienced players to challenge Ireland.
Key Players:
- Sean Williams – A crucial all-rounder with experience.
- Craig Ervine – The captain and a dependable batter.
- Blessing Muzarabani – The leader of the pace attack.
Zimbabwe Predicted Playing XI:
Joylord Gumbie, Benjamin Curran, T Kaitano, Craig Ervine (c), Sean Williams, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamburi, Victor Nyauchi, Brian Bennett, John Campbell/Nick Welch
Ireland Preview
Ireland has a balanced squad with a mix of experienced and young players. Andrew Balbirnie and Peter Moor will open, followed by Curtis Campher, Lorcan Tucker, Harry Tector, and Paul Stirling in the middle order. This core has played together for a long time and provides stability.
The bowling unit features a strong pace attack with Mark Adair, Craig Young, Curtis Campher, and Barry McCarthy. Andy McBrine will be the lead spinner, while either Mathew Humphreys or Gavin Hoey could play as the second spin option.
Ireland has a more settled squad and recent experience in Test matches, which could give them an edge in this contest.
Key Players:
- Andrew Balbirnie – The captain and an experienced batter.
- Curtis Campher – A solid all-rounder.
- Mark Adair – A key pace bowler.
Ireland Predicted Playing XI:
Andrew Balbirnie (c), Peter Moor, Curtis Campher, Lorcan Tucker, Harry Tector, Paul Stirling, Barry McCarthy, Mark Adair, Craig Young, Andy McBrine, Mathew Humphreys
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Andrew Balbirnie (C) | Ireland | Batter |
| Craig Ervine | Zimbabwe | Batter |
| Sean Williams (VC) | Zimbabwe | All-rounder |
| Harry Tector | Ireland | Batter |
| Paul Stirling | Ireland | All-rounder |
| Curtis Campher | Ireland | All-rounder |
| Andy McBrine | Ireland | All-rounder |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Zimbabwe | Bowler |
| Richard Ngarava | Zimbabwe | Bowler |
| Mark Adair | Ireland | Bowler |
| Victor Nyauchi | Zimbabwe | Bowler |
Pitch & Weather Report
Weather Conditions
- Days 1-3: Sunny and warm.
- Days 4-5: Possible cloud cover and light rain.
- Temperature: 21°C – 32°C
- Humidity: Moderate
- Wind: Light breeze
Pitch Report
The Queens Sports Club pitch is expected to be flat initially, making batting easier for the first three days.
- Pace bowlers may find some assistance early, but as the game progresses, the surface should favor batters.
- Spin will come into play in the later stages, making chasing a tough task.
Toss Prediction: To Bat
- The first innings will be crucial, as the pitch is likely to deteriorate later.
Match Prediction
Zimbabwe has home advantage, but Ireland has a more settled squad and recent Test experience. Zimbabwe’s batting looks a bit inexperienced, while Ireland’s balanced lineup could prove decisive.
Prediction: Ireland to win
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