Cricket Highlights, Feb 23: Ireland tour of Zimbabwe (2nd T20) – ZIM vs IRE

ZIM vs IRE (2nd T20) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the thrilling 2nd T20I between ZIM and IRE, held on February 23, 2025, at Harare Sports Club. Zimbabwe emerged victorious by 3 wickets, successfully chasing down Ireland’s target of 138 runs with four balls to spare. This closely contested match showcased brilliant performances from both sides, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final over.

IRE, batting first, struggled to find momentum after losing Captain Paul Stirling for just 1 run in the opening over, courtesy of Richard Ngarava. Lorcan Tucker was the standout performer for Ireland, playing a crucial knock of 46 runs from 40 balls, including three boundaries and one six. 

Harry Tector provided a brisk 28 off 20 deliveries, maintaining a healthy strike rate of 140.00, but his dismissal by Zimbabwe’s captain Sikandar Raza in the eighth over stalled Ireland’s momentum. Curtis Campher (26 off 25) anchored the middle order but struggled to accelerate against disciplined Zimbabwean bowling.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers displayed a commendable effort, led by the young pacer Trevor Gwandu, who claimed 3 wickets for 24 runs in his four overs. Richard Ngarava contributed with 2 wickets for 38 runs, striking at crucial moments, while Sikandar Raza’s off-spin earned him 2 wickets for 22 runs. 

Ireland lost wickets at regular intervals, with quick dismissals of Neil Rock (8), Gareth Delany (2), and George Dockrell (9) preventing them from setting a more formidable target. Despite some late hitting from Craig Young (7*) and Josh Little (1*), Ireland concluded their innings at 137/8 after 20 overs.

In response, ZIM faced early setbacks as Craig Young’s brilliant spell reduced them to 14/3 within the first four overs. Young dismissed Tadiwanashe Marumani (1), Wessly Madhevere (1), and Brian Bennett (8), giving Ireland a promising start. Zimbabwe’s captain Sikandar Raza tried to stabilize the innings with a patient 22 off 27 balls but fell to Ben White in the 11th over, leaving Zimbabwe in trouble at 64/5.

The turning point of the chase came through Tony Munyonga’s exceptional innings. Displaying remarkable composure, Munyonga scored a match-winning 43 off 30 balls, including five boundaries, at a strike rate of 143.33. His aggressive approach helped Zimbabwe rebuild their innings, especially after losing key wickets. Ryan Burl’s valuable contribution of 27 off 20 balls also proved vital in keeping the chase on track.

Despite the fall of Tashinga Musekiwa (15) and Wellington Masakadza (6) in the latter stages, Richard Ngarava’s quickfire 12 off 7 balls, including two boundaries, sealed the victory for Zimbabwe. Craig Young was the pick of Ireland’s bowlers with impressive figures of 4/24 in his full quota, while Josh Little and Ben White took one wicket each. However, Zimbabwe’s middle-order resilience and aggressive finishing ultimately saw them chase down the target in 19.2 overs, finishing at 141/7.

This victory gave Zimbabwe a 3-wicket win and highlighted their ability to perform under pressure. The efforts of Munyonga and the bowling unit were instrumental in overcoming Ireland’s challenge, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the T20I series.

Ireland vs Zimbabwe Scoreboard

Ireland – 137/8

Zimbabwe – 141/7(19.2/20)

Result – Zimbabwe won by 3 wickets (with 4 balls remaining)

Player of the Match – Tony Munyonga

ZIM vs IRE Playing XIs

Ireland

Paul Stirling(C), Lorcan Tucker(WK), Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Neil Rock, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Graham Hume, Craig Young, Josh Little, Ben White

Zimbabwe

Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani(WK), Wessly Madhevere, Sikandar Raza(C), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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