Ireland vs Zimbabwe: Predicted Playing XI for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Match 32

Ireland will face Zimbabwe in the 32nd match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, a Group B clash scheduled to be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on 17 February, with the match set to begin at 3:00 PM IST. The contest arrives at a crucial stage of the group, with Ireland struggling for momentum while Zimbabwe enter the fixture riding high on confidence after back-to-back wins, including a statement victory over Australia.

Ireland have managed just one win from their three matches so far, despite showcasing batting depth in their previous outing against Oman. Zimbabwe, in contrast, have been clinical, winning both of their matches, and arrive fresh off a 23-run win over Australia, a result that has significantly boosted their qualification prospects and confidence.

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Predicted Ireland Playing XI

Top Order: Tim Tector, Ross Adair, Harry Tector

Ireland are expected to continue with the same top order that featured in their last match. Tim Tector and Ross Adair provided brisk starts against Oman, with Adair striking at 200. Harry Tector adds stability at No.3, however, converting starts into substantial partnerships remains an area of concern for Ireland.

Middle Order: Lorcan Tucker (C & WK), Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany

Lorcan Tucker was the standout performer in Ireland’s last match, smashing a superb unbeaten 94 off 51 deliveries, proving the backbone of the batting order of their massive total of 235. Gareth Delany’s 56 off 30 balls underlined his value as a middle-order enforcer, while Curtis Campher adds flexibility and intent.

Lower Order: George Dockrell 

Dockrell provides late-innings explosiveness, as seen in his blistering unbeaten 35 off just nine balls, including five sixes, giving Ireland a strong finishing option, and as a spinner he has been a standout in the whole tournament. In three matches thus far, he has picked up four wickets with an economy of just 6.

Bowlers: Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Joshua Little

Ireland’s bowling attack showed mixed returns against Oman. Joshua Little was the standout, picking up 3 wickets for 16 runs, while Barry McCarthy chipped in with two wickets. Humphreys impressed with control and two wickets, though Ireland will be keen to improve their death-overs execution.

Ireland T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

Tim Tector, Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (c & wk), Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Joshua Little, Craig Young, Benjamin White, Benjamin Calitz, Sam Topping.

Predicted Zimbabwe Playing XI

Top Order: Tadiwanashe Marumani (WK), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers
Zimbabwe’s top order was instrumental in their win over Australia. Marumani provided early momentum, while Brian Bennett played a mature knock, remaining unbeaten on 64 off 56, setting the tone for a competitive total.

Middle Order: Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza (C)

Ryan Burl contributed a vital 35 off 30, while captain Sikandar Raza finished strongly with unbeaten 25 off 13, striking at nearly 200 in the previous game. Raza continues to be Zimbabwe’s heartbeat in crunch moments.

All-Rounders: Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer

Masakadza and Cremer add control and balance, particularly through the middle overs, even though wickets were shared across the attack rather than concentrated.

Bowlers: Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans

Zimbabwe’s bowling was the decisive factor against Australia. Muzarabani was outstanding, claiming four wickets for 17 runs, while Brad Evans backed him up with three for 23, dismantling Australia’s chase and sealing a historic win.

Zimbabwe T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza (c), Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Richard Ngarava, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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