Zimbabwe fell to a six-wicket defeat against Ireland in the second ODI at Harare Sports Club on Sunday. Despite fighting half-centuries from Wessly Madhevere (61) and Sikandar Raza (58), Zimbabwe’s total of 245 proved insufficient as Ireland chased it down with eight balls to spare. After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, Zimbabwe got off to a promising start with starlet Brian Bennett (30) scoring freely before falling to Mark Adair. Craig Ervine (4) was brilliantly bowled by Josh Little, while Ben Curran (18) strangely and poorly chopped on against Andy McBrine. This left Zimbabwe at a precarious 77 for three. Step in Madhevere and Raza who then rebuilt with a solid 50-run stand, giving the innings much-needed momentum. However, just as Zimbabwe looked set to push on, Curtis Campher struck twice in quick succession, removing Jonathan Campbell (2) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (0) in the same over off what were perhaps poorly judged decisions. Raza tried to lead the late charge, but his dismissal for 58 halted Zimbabwe’s progress. Wellington Masakadza’s enterprising 35 and a useful unbeaten 18 from Richard Ngarava helped push Zimbabwe to 245 all out in 49 overs. Adair was Ireland’s was he pick off the bowlers, finishing with four for 54, while Campher’s three for 13 played a crucial role in restricting Zimbabwe. Defending 246, Zimbabwe started well with Blessing Muzarabani removing Andy Balbirnie (11) early. However, Paul Stirling and Campher put together a match-defining 144-run partnership, frustrating Zimbabwe’s bowlers. Stirling led the charge with 89 off 102 balls, while Campher contributed a steady 63. Trevor Gwandu gave Zimbabwe hope by dismissing Campher and later removing Harry Tector (7), while Richard Ngarava got the key wicket of Stirling. Despite these breakthroughs, Ireland constricted Zimbabwe, with Lorcan Tucker (36*) and George Dockrell (20*) seeing them home in the 49th over, with eight balls to go. The loss leaves the series tied at 1-1 and sets up a decisive final match on Tuesday. Subscribe to Blog via Email