Zimbabwe secured a resounding 9-wicket victory over Ireland in the third and decisive ODI, clinching the three-match series 2-1. Zimbabwe's batsmen delivered a stellar performance, chasing down a 240-run target in just 39.3 overs with the loss of only one wicket.
Sports News: The third and final ODI between Zimbabwe and Ireland was played on February 18th (Tuesday) at the Harare Sports Club. Zimbabwe showcased a dominant performance, defeating Ireland by 9 wickets and winning the series 2-1.
Zimbabwe's batsmen played a crucial role in their victory. The team chased down the 240-run target in merely 39.3 overs, losing only one wicket. In addition to their excellent batting display, Zimbabwe's bowlers also performed admirably, restricting Ireland from posting a significantly larger score.
Ireland posted 240 runs for 6 wickets in the third ODI
Batting first in the third ODI, Ireland managed 240 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 50 overs. The team's start was slow, but captain Andrew Balbirnie (64 runs, 99 balls) and Harry Tector (51 runs, 84 balls) steadied the innings with a crucial partnership. Lorcan Tucker accelerated towards the end, scoring 54 runs off 61 balls, helping Ireland reach a respectable total.
Zimbabwe's bowlers bowled tightly, preventing Ireland from reaching a much higher score. Richard Ngarava (2/42), Trevor Gwandu (2/44), and Blessing Muzarabani (1/47) bowled brilliantly, restricting the opposition.
Zimbabwe's powerful batting display, Ben Curran's century
Chasing 241 runs, Zimbabwe displayed a magnificent batting performance. Opener Brian Bennett played aggressively, scoring 48 runs off 48 balls, providing a quick start for the team. Following this, Ben Curran smashed an unbeaten 118 off 130 balls, securing an easy victory for his team. Craig Ervine also contributed significantly with an unbeaten 69 (59 balls), guiding the team to victory in 39.3 overs.
Ireland's bowlers were completely ineffective in this match. Graham Hume was the only successful bowler, taking one wicket for 39 runs in 8 overs. All other bowlers failed to take any wickets. With this impressive victory, Zimbabwe won the ODI series 2-1. Ben Curran was named Player of the Match for his outstanding 118-run innings.
