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The One-Day International series between Zimbabwe and Ireland has started with an impressive performance from the home team. After a setback in the Test matches, Zimbabwe made a strong comeback in the first ODI, securing a convincing victory. They will now aim to continue their winning momentum and seal the series with another win.
On the other hand, Ireland struggled in the opening game, failing to convert starts into big scores. Their batting unit fell short, while their bowlers struggled to contain Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. However, they will take confidence from their previous victories against Zimbabwe and look to bounce back strongly.
MATCH DETAILS
| Match | Zimbabwe vs Ireland |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, 5th February 2025 |
| Time | 12:30 PM (Local Time) |
| Venue | Harare Sports Club, Harare |
| Live Streaming | Official Broadcasters & Online Platforms |
TEAM PREVIEWS
Zimbabwe Preview
The home team delivered a dominant performance in the first ODI, posting a formidable total of 299/5 in their 50 overs. The standout performer was Brian Bennett, who played a magnificent knock of 169 runs off 163 balls. His flawless innings ensured Zimbabwe had enough runs on the board.
Craig Ervine (66 runs) and Ben Curran (28 runs) provided valuable contributions at the top. However, the middle order failed to capitalize, as no batter managed to cross the 20-run mark.
The bowlers delivered a strong performance, restricting Ireland to 250 runs. Blessing Muzarabani was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4 wickets for 51 runs, while Richard Ngarava provided excellent support, picking up 3 wickets for 56 runs. Wesley Madhevere and Sikandar Raza chipped in with one wicket each.
With their batting in top form and bowlers executing their plans perfectly, Zimbabwe will look to wrap up the series with another win.
Predicted Playing XI:
Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Ben Curran, Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, John Campbell, T Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Newman Nyamuri
Ireland Preview
Ireland’s batting lineup faltered in the first ODI, getting bowled out for 250 runs while chasing. Curtis Campher was the top scorer with 44 runs, but he failed to convert his start into a big score. Harry Tector (39 runs), Lorcan Tucker, and George Dockrell also got starts but could not build a match-winning partnership.
Their bowlers struggled to contain Zimbabwe’s batters, conceding 299 runs in their 50 overs. Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, and Graham Hume took a wicket each, but their lack of penetration allowed Zimbabwe to post a big total. Joshua Little had an expensive outing, leaking 75 runs in 9 overs.
To make a comeback in this series, Ireland need more consistency from their batters, while their bowlers must tighten their lines and lengths. Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, and Mark Adair will be key players for them in this match.
Predicted Playing XI:
Andrew Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Lorcan Tucker, Harry Tector, Paul Stirling, Graham Hume, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Craig Young, Andy McBrine, Mathew Humphreys
FANTASY TEAM XI
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Brian Bennett | Batter (C) |
| Harry Tector | Batter (VC) |
| Craig Ervine | Batter |
| Curtis Campher | All-rounder |
| Sikandar Raza | All-rounder |
| Ben Curran | Batter |
| Mark Adair | All-rounder |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Bowler |
| Richard Ngarava | Bowler |
| Joshua Little | Bowler |
| Wellington Masakadza | Bowler |
PITCH REPORT
The Harare Sports Club pitch has been good for batting, but bowlers will find assistance in overcast conditions.
- Batting Conditions: The surface provides decent bounce, and batsmen can score freely if they settle in.
- Pace Bowling: There will be early movement, especially in the first few overs.
- Spin Bowling: Spinners will get some turn as the match progresses.
- Par Score: Around 270-290 runs.
Toss Prediction: To Bowl
With overcast conditions expected, teams may prefer to bowl first and take advantage of swing early on.
MATCH PREDICTION
Zimbabwe put up a clinical performance in the first game, excelling in both batting and bowling. Ireland’s batting unit struggled to build partnerships, and their bowlers failed to contain Zimbabwe’s batting attack.
Considering the momentum and home advantage, Zimbabwe are favorites to win and clinch the series.
Prediction: Zimbabwe to win.
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