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HARARE – Ireland put up a valiant effort in their opening T20I encounter against Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club but fell just short, losing by three wickets in a closely contested match.

Despite solid batting contributions and a strong bowling performance from Craig Young, Zimbabwe held their nerve to chase down Ireland’s 137-run target with four balls to spare.

After winning the toss and opting to bowl, Zimbabwe immediately put Ireland under pressure, removing captain Paul Stirling for just one run in the first over. However, Lorcan Tucker and Harry Tector counter-attacked, putting together a fluent 50-run partnership in just 34 balls. Tucker, dropped on five, was particularly impressive, anchoring the innings with a composed 46 off 40 deliveries, striking three boundaries and a six.

Harry Tector (28) and Curtis Campher (26) also made valuable contributions, but Ireland struggled to accelerate in the death overs. Zimbabwe’s bowlers tightened their grip, with Trevor Gwandu (3-24) and Sikandar Raza (2-22) leading the attack. Ireland finished on 137-8 – a competitive total, but one that would require a disciplined bowling effort.

Ireland made an ideal start with the ball, reducing Zimbabwe to 14-3 inside four overs. Craig Young was the star, striking twice in quick succession to remove Tadiwanashe Marumani and Wessly Madhevere before dismissing Brian Bennett, leaving the hosts reeling.

However, Zimbabwe’s middle order steadied the ship. Ryan Burl (27), dropped early by Stirling, made Ireland pay with a quick-fire knock before falling to Harry Tector. The defining innings of the match came from Tony Munyonga, who remained unbeaten on 43 balls, guiding Zimbabwe home despite a spirited Irish effort in the field.

With Zimbabwe needing 26 off the last three overs, Ireland had a glimmer of hope, but Richard Ngarava’s 12 balls provided the final push, securing Zimbabwe’s victory at 141-7 in 19.2 overs.

Craig Young was outstanding with the ball, finishing with 4-24 in his four overs, but Ireland was left to rue missed opportunities.

Ireland will take positives from their performance, particularly the contributions of Tucker and Young, but they will need to sharpen their execution in key moments ahead of the next match in the series.

MATCH SUMMARY

Ireland v Zimbabwe, T20I series in Zimbabwe, Harare Sports Club, 23 February 2025

Ireland 137-8 (20 overs; L Tucker 46; T Gwandu 3-24)                      
Zimbabwe 141-7 (19.3 overs; T Munyonga 43*; C Young 4-24)

Zimbabwe won by 3 wickets

Scorecard here