Cricket Match Prediction | Zimbabwe vs Ireland | 3rd ODI | Feb 18 – Who do you think will win the series ZIM or IRE?

ZIM vs IRE Match Analysis

Zimbabwe and Ireland will play each other in the 3rd match of the three-match ODI series on February 18, 2025, at 1:30 PM BST at Harare Sports Club, Harare. Zimbabwe suffered a heavy defeat in the second ODI but will aim to bounce back in the series decider. Drawing confidence from their victory in the opening match, they will look to put up a strong fight. 

Ireland staged a brilliant comeback after their defeat in the first ODI and will now look to maintain their momentum with another win to seal the series 2-1. With both teams determined to claim the series, an intense battle is expected in this match.

ZIM vs IRE Team Preview & Squads

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe was dismissed for a below-par total of 246 runs in 49 overs. Wesley Madhevere (68) and Sikandar Raza (58) fought strongly after early wickets at the top. Brian Bennett (30), Wellington Masakadza (35), and Ben Curran (18) also contributed, but they couldn’t push the total beyond a competitive score.

With the ball, ZIM conceded 250 runs in 48.4 overs. Blessing Muzarabani (1/51) and Richard Ngarava (1/56) picked up a wicket each but struggled to contain the opposition’s scoring. Wesley Madhevere and Sikandar Raza bowled economical spells, providing some control in the innings.

Zimbabwe Squads

Zimbabwe

Brian Bennett, Sikandar Raza, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wessly Madhevere, Trevor Gwandu, Sean Williams, Blessing Muzarabani, Nyasha Mayavo, Johnathan Campbell, Tinotenda Maposa, Craig Ervine, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, Wellington Masakadza, Newman Nyamhuri.

Ireland 

Ireland’s batters comfortably chased down the target of 249 runs in the previous match. Paul Stirling led the charge with a brilliant 89, while Curtis Campher (63), Lorcan Tucker (36), and George Dockrell (20) maintained the momentum to secure a six-wicket victory.

Their IRE bowlers did well to bowl out the opposition for 246 in 49 overs. Mark Adair (4/54) and Curtis Campher (3/13) were outstanding, sharing seven wickets between them. Andy McBrine, Joshua Little, and Graham Hume picked up a wicket each, while Matthew Humphreys delivered a steady spell.

Ireland Squads

Ireland

Barry McCarthy, Mark Adair, Craig Young, Matthew Humphreys, George Dockrell, Graham Hume, Lorcan Tucker, Paul Stirling, Andy McBrine, Josh Little, Curtis Campher, Andy Balbirnie, Gavin Hoey, Harry Tector, Morgan Topping.

Zimbabwe vs Ireland outfield report

Harare Sports Club, Harare

The pitch will stay the same during the game, thus both teams will try to chase down the total. The match day in Harare is predicted to be quite cloudy with a chance of rain. However, we only anticipate minor, sporadic delays during the game. 

We anticipate that the batters will have some difficulty here because the Harare pitch is on the slower side due to its used character. It will be challenging to pursue any score higher than 270 runs.   

ZIM vs IRE Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches 

In their last 5 encounters, IRE won 3 and ZIM won one.

Zimbabwe vs Ireland Prediction

Cricket analysts predict Ireland has a 51% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.