Zimbabwe secured a 2-1 ODI series victory against Ireland with a nine-wicket win in Harare. Ben Curran starred with an unbeaten 118, while the hosts chased down 240 runs comfortably. Ireland managed contributions from Balbirnie, Tucker, and Tector, but fell short. The teams will compete in a T20 series next, amid injury concerns for Ireland.
Zimbabwe triumphed over Ireland by nine wickets in the third One-Day International, thereby securing a 2-1 series victory in Harare. Zimbabwe successfully chased down Ireland’s total of 240 runs, finishing at 246 for 1 in just 39.3 overs. Ben Curran was the standout performer for the hosts, scoring an impressive 118 not out, marking his inaugural international century since debuting for Zimbabwe in 2022, while Craig Ervine contributed a solid 69 not out.
Ireland batted first, posting 240 for 6 in their allotted overs with notable contributions from Andrew Balbirnie (64), Lorcan Tucker (61), and Harry Tector (51). The trio formed significant partnerships, including an important 86-run stand for the third wicket. The bowling for Zimbabwe was led by Richard Ngarava and Trevor Gwandu, both claiming two wickets each.
Zimbabwe’s victory was characterized by an effective chase, highlighted by Brian Bennett’s steady 48 runs. Ireland’s Graham Hume managed to secure the only wicket for his team, dismissing Bennett lbw. Following a solid foundation provided by Bennett, Curran and Ervine’s partnership ensured a comfortable win for Zimbabwe.
Earlier in the series, Zimbabwe won the first ODI by 49 runs, while Ireland leveled it with a six-wicket victory in the second match. The teams are now set to engage in a three-match T20 series starting this Saturday, with additional matches on the subsequent weekend.
It is important to note that Ireland will face a challenge in the upcoming games, as opener Ross Adair has been ruled out due to a calf injury. Previously, Ireland had claimed victory in a one-off Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, adding context to the competitive nature of this series.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s decisive nine-wicket win over Ireland in the final ODI allowed them to clinch the series 2-1, with Ben Curran’s century being a significant highlight. Ireland demonstrated resilience but ultimately fell short in the series finale. The teams will now shift their focus to the T20 matches, with Ireland facing challenges due to player injuries.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
