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Curtis Campher delivered with both bat and ball in a composed Ireland performance, helping level the ODI series 1-1 with a six-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second of three ODIs at Harare Sports Club.

Campher’s 63 and Paul Stirling’s commanding 89 guided the visitors in their chase of 246, setting up an exciting series decider on Tuesday. Campher also played a crucial role with the ball, taking three for 13 in five overs while conceding just one boundary.

Winning the toss and opting to field, Ireland’s bowlers kept Zimbabwe in check throughout the innings. Mark Adair led the attack with an impressive four for 54, dismissing the in-form Brian Bennett early after his brisk 30.

Josh Little accounted for Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine (4), while Andy McBrine removed Ben Curran (18), leaving the hosts struggling at 77 for 3.

Wessly Madhevere (61) and Sikandar Raza (58) stitched together a 74-run partnership to rebuild the innings. However, just as Zimbabwe looked set for a strong finish, Campher turned the game with an inspired spell. His double strike in the 35th over removed Jonathan Campbell (2) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (0) in quick succession.

Late contributions from Wellington Masakadza (35) and Richard Ngarava (18*) pushed Zimbabwe to a competitive 245 all out in 49 overs.

Ireland’s chase got off to a steady start despite the early loss of Andrew Balbirnie (11) to Blessing Muzarabani. Stirling and Campher then took control, putting together a largely chanceless 144-run partnership. Stirling, who struck eight fours and two sixes, was the aggressor, while Campher played a more measured innings.

Zimbabwe found a breakthrough when Trevor Gwandu trapped Campher leg before wicket for 63. Soon after, Stirling fell for 89, edging to extra cover off Ngarava.

Despite these setbacks, Ireland remained in control. Lorcan Tucker’s unbeaten 32 and George Dockrell’s 20 ensured there were no further hiccups, guiding Ireland to victory with eight balls to spare.

With the series now level, all eyes turn to the decisive third ODI on Tuesday, where Zimbabwe will aim to bounce back, while Ireland will look to build on this momentum and clinch the series.

MATCH SUMMARY

Ireland v Zimbabwe, ODI series in Zimbabwe, Harare Sports Club, 16 February 2025

Zimbabwe 245 (49 overs; W Madhevere 61; M Adair 4-54)
Ireland 249-4 (48.4 overs; P Stirling 89; T Gwandu 2-50)                                                                             

Ireland won by 6 wickets

Scorecard here