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The T20I series between Zimbabwe and Ireland has been disrupted by unfavorable weather conditions, with the first match being abandoned after just one innings. As a result, this three-match series is now reduced to two, making this upcoming fixture a crucial encounter for both sides. A victory here will put the winning team in a commanding position to seal the series.
Ireland have enjoyed recent dominance over Zimbabwe in this format, winning their last two encounters. Their batting unit carries more firepower, which they will look to capitalize on in this contest. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, have a challenging record at Harare and will need a much-improved performance to shift the momentum in their favor.
Match Details
| Match | Zimbabwe vs Ireland |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, 2nd February 2025 |
| Time | 4:30 PM Local Time |
| Venue | Harare Sports Club |
| Format | T20I |
Teams Preview
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe were fortunate in the opening game as rain intervened at a crucial moment when they were struggling to post a competitive total. Their batters failed to get going, with only Ryan Burl making a meaningful contribution. Skipper Sikandar Raza will demand a stronger showing from his team, especially with the bat.
Brian Bennett has shown good form recently and will need to anchor the innings alongside Tadiwanashe Marumani. The middle order, comprising Raza, Wesley Madhevere, and Ryan Burl, must ensure they put up enough runs to challenge Ireland’s batting-heavy lineup. The finishing responsibilities will fall on Tony Munyonga and Tashinga Musekiwa.
Bowling remains Zimbabwe’s strength, with Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani leading the attack. Their ability to pick early wickets will be crucial. In the spin department, Wellington Masakadza and Trevor Gwandu need to control the middle overs, while Raza and Burl provide additional variety.
Zimbabwe Predicted Playing XI:
Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Wesley Madhevere, Tony Munyonga, Ryan Burl, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu
Ireland Preview
Ireland were in a commanding position before the first match was abandoned. Their bowlers kept Zimbabwe in check, and they would have backed their strong batting lineup to chase the total with ease. Paul Stirling will be eager for his team to carry the same momentum into this match.
The opening pair of Stirling and Lorcan Tucker will be key in setting the tone. The middle order, consisting of Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, and Neil Rock, is experienced and capable of steadying the innings if early wickets fall. The lower middle order, with George Dockrell and Gareth Delany, can provide the necessary acceleration towards the end.
Ireland’s bowling unit impressed in the last game, with Joshua Little, Craig Young, and Graham Hume picking up crucial wickets. Little, in particular, will play a key role in the middle overs. Benjamin White and Delany add spin options to the attack, making it well-balanced for these conditions.
Ireland Predicted Playing XI:
Paul Stirling (c), Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Neil Rock, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Graham Hume, Craig Young, Joshua Little, Benjamin White
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Lorcan Tucker |
| Batters | Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Ryan Burl, Wesley Madhevere |
| All-rounders | Sikandar Raza, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany |
| Bowlers | Joshua Little, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava |
Pitch Report
The Harare Sports Club surface is known for being slow, making stroke play challenging.
- Batting Conditions: The pitch tends to assist bowlers more than batters, with an average first-innings total hovering around 155. A score around 170-180 could be a match-winning total.
- Pace Bowling: Fast bowlers will get early movement, especially under cloudy conditions, but must adjust as the ball gets older.
- Spin Bowling: Spinners enjoy success here, with the ball gripping and stopping on the surface. The slow nature of the pitch forces batters to take risks, creating wicket opportunities.
Toss Prediction: Bowl First
With weather concerns in play and the pitch offering something for the bowlers early on, teams will likely prefer chasing. Batting second has been a successful strategy at this venue, particularly in rain-affected matches.
Winning Prediction
Zimbabwe’s inconsistency in the batting department is a concern, and they must improve significantly to challenge Ireland. Ireland, on the other hand, have a more stable lineup and their bowlers are in good form. With better balance across departments, they hold the edge heading into this contest.
Prediction: Ireland to win
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