ZIM vs IRE 2nd ODI Results

5:32 AM IST We are down to the second of three ODIs between Zimbabwe and Ireland at the Harare Sports Club. In the series opener, Zimbabwe rode on a sensational 169 from Brian Bennett to post 299, a total that proved too steep for the Irish. Dropped chances proved costly for the visitors, and they will be eager to tighten up in the field this time around. Josh Little lacked the usual bite with the new ball, failing to make early inroads, and he will be keen to exploit the conditions better. With the bat, several Irish batters got starts but couldn't convert, and the experienced Andy Balbirnie, who failed to make an impact in the first game, will be eager to step up as Ireland look to keep the series alive. As for the hosts, even after posting 299, they will feel they left a few runs out there, especially in the death overs, an area they will look to improve in this game. With the ball, Zimbabwe were largely disciplined and did well to keep Ireland in check, but on a personal front, Sikandar Raza will be eager to make a bigger impact with both bat and ball. Having led the side admirably, he will want to stamp his authority in this crucial fixture as Zimbabwe aim to seal the series. If the hosts do manage to make it 2-0, it will be Zimbabwe's first bilateral series win at home in this format against Ireland since 2015. Can Ireland find a way to bounce back and take the series to a decider, or will Zimbabwe seal it with a game to spare? We shall find out together.

3:38 PM IST And that's a wrap! The series is now level, setting the stage for a thrilling decider. Join us on February 18th for the 3rd and final ODI, where Zimbabwe and Ireland will clash once again. We'll have action underway from 6:30 pm GMT. You can join us an hour early for the match updates and analysis. Until then, goodbye and cheers!

3:37 PM IST Ireland captain Paul Stirling praised his team's performance, particularly during the middle period of the game. He noted that although they didn't take wickets during that phase, they successfully kept the Zimbabwean scoring rate in check, which ultimately set the stage for their later success. Stirling acknowledged that a target of 270-280 would have been much more challenging, but expressed satisfaction that his bowlers prevented Zimbabwe from reaching that mark. Looking ahead to the final game, Stirling indicated that he plans to stick with the same XI, provided everyone is fit and available.

3:36 PM IST Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine reflected on his team's performance, stating that they were on track until the 30th over mark, but lost their momentum in the final 20 overs with the bat. Ervine acknowledged that the wicket was assisting the bowlers, but credited the Irish batters for applying themselves well and making the most of the conditions. He also rued the extras conceded by his team, which ultimately proved costly. Ervine concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective bowling effort, expressing confidence that if his team can bowl well together, things will start to go in their favor.

3:35 PM IST Curtis Campher, the Player of the Match, shared his thoughts on his impressive performance. He revealed that his strategy was to focus on keeping the ball in the line of the stumps, and it paid off handsomely. Campher also emphasized the importance of nullifying Zimbabwe's chances of making a comeback in the chase. He praised his partnership with Paul Stirling, stating that they worked well together to prevent Zimbabwe from gaining momentum. By doing so, they successfully shut the door on Zimbabwe's hopes of a comeback, ultimately paving the way for Ireland's victory.