Zimbabwe defeated Ireland by nine wickets in the third ODI, winning the series 2-1. Ben Curran’s century (118 not out) was pivotal in reaching the target of 246 runs. Ireland scored 240-6 with notable contributions from Balbirnie, Tucker, and Tector. The T20 series between the teams is set to start soon, although Ireland will be without opener Ross Adair due to injury.
Zimbabwe secured a resounding nine-wicket victory over Ireland in their third One Day International (ODI) match, held in Harare, thereby clinching the ODI series with a final score of 2-1. Ben Curran was the star of the show, scoring an impressive 118 runs off 130 balls, which included 14 boundaries. This marked Curran’s first international century since he began representing Zimbabwe last December, qualifying through his father.
Ireland batted first, amassing a total of 240 runs for the loss of six wickets in 50 overs. The standout performers for Ireland included Andrew Balbirnie, who scored 64 runs, Lorcan Tucker with 61 runs, and Harry Tector contributing 51 runs. Notably, Balbirnie and Tector forged an 86-run partnership for the third wicket, while Tucker and Mark Adair added a crucial 67 runs for the sixth wicket.
In reply, Zimbabwe pursued their target confidently, reaching 246 runs for the loss of just one wicket in 39.3 overs. Brian Bennett laid a strong foundation with his 48 runs, falling lbw to Graham Hume, who recorded Ireland’s only wicket. Curran, along with captain Craig Ervine, who was not out on 39 runs, ensured a steady and decisive victory for their team.
Prior to this match, Zimbabwe won the first ODI by 49 runs, while Ireland managed to level the series with a six-wicket win in the second ODI. Both teams will now transition to a three-match T20 series, commencing on Saturday. Unfortunately for Ireland, opener Ross Adair has been ruled out of these matches due to a calf injury sustained earlier in the week.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s victory over Ireland, highlighted by Ben Curran’s exceptional century, not only secured the ODI series but also showcased the team’s batting prowess. Ireland’s efforts, marked by several half-centuries, were commendable, yet they fell short in this decisive encounter. The forthcoming T20 series promises to be an exciting continuation of Ireland’s tour, despite the setback of losing key players to injury.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
