The second ODI between Ireland and Zimbabwe will take place at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Belfast, on 10 September. The two sides played the first match of the three-match series at the same venue two days ago, where Zimbabwe beat Ireland by 38 runs.
In the series opener, Ireland were chasing 267, and they were very much in control for a major part. However, they lost the plot after William Porterfield’s dismissal. Porterfield got out on 75, and the next eight wickets fell for just 65. They were bowled out for 228 in 48.4 overs.
Andrew Balbirnie failed to make an impact last time. He will be a key in their batting, along with Paul Stirling and Harry Tector. Simi Singh, Ireland’s most-decorated all-rounder, returned 10-2-22-1 with ball, but did not last long with bat.
From Zimbabwe’s perspective, Brendan Taylor returned for the ODIs after missing the T20I series earlier in the tour. He made 45-ball 49, and was ably assisted by Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza to post a challenging total after they were asked to bat. Later on, Blessing Muzarabani produced a fiery spell to ensure their side’s triumph.
Ireland will be desperate to win this one to level the series. However, Zimbabwe looked far more balanced compared to them in the first match, and are once again favourites on paper before heading to this fixture.
Betway Fantasy Tips
– Bet on Zimbabwe. Appoint Ervine and Simi as captain and vice-captain respectively.
– Among the wicket-keepers, include both Zimbabweans Taylor and Regis Chakabva. Though Taylor did not take the big gloves last time.
– Mark Adair was expensive for his solitary wicket in the last match. He had an excellent T20I series less than a week ago. Back him again.
Probable XIs
Ireland: Andrew Balbirnie (c), Lorcan Tucker (wk), Paul Stirling, William Porterfield, Harry Tector, George Dockrell, Simi Singh, Andy McBrine, Mark Adair, Craig Young, Joshua Little.
Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Regis Chakabva (wk), Brendan Taylor, Dion Myers, Sean Williams, Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava.
Prediction
Zimbabwe should win this contest, and seal the series.
Blitzpools Fantasy XI
Craig Ervine (C), Simi Singh (VC), Regis Chakabva, Brendan Taylor, Paul Stirling, William Porterfield, Andrew Balbirnie, Mark Adair, Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani.
