Ireland and Zimbabwe will be up against each other in the first T20I of the five-match series at Clontarf Cricket Ground in Dublin, on Thursday (27 August). Ireland lost all three T20Is against South Africa last month, while Zimbabwe won one and lost two against Bangladesh.
Ireland possess a terrific bowling attack. Mark Adair repeatedly troubled South African batters in the last series, picking up five wickets in three games. Joshua Little and Simi Singh also impressed with their disciplined bowling. Ireland might play Barry Richards ahead of Craig Young, as the former is quite handy with the bat.
Kevin O'Brien will be coming on the back off two ducks in his last three matches. Ireland have been very patient with him, and now he needs to repay the faith. Paul Stirling has had a terrific campaign with SOuthern Brave in the Hundred. Stirling would like to replicate the same for his national side.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, would expect their batters to click in unison. Against Pakistan, they were let down by inconsistency. There were no dearth of individual brilliance, but they couldn't perform as a unit.
Wesley Madhevere struck two fifties in the series, one of which led Zimbabwe to a sole victory in the series. Regis Chakabva is the most explosive batter in this side. He can easily win the game in few balls.
Blessing Muzarabani was terrific throughout the series, but he lacked support from the other end. Sikandar Raza needs to step up with both bat and ball.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Most of the Irish batsmen would be facing Blessing Muzarabani for the first time in their international career. Muzarabani's height and pace make him quite tricky to negotiate.
- Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirne are must-haves for your fantasy teams.
- Overall, Ireland appears to be a more balanced and threatening side.
Probable XIs
Ireland: Paul Stirling, Kevin O'Brien, Andrew Balbirnie (c), George Dockrell, Harry Tector, Simi Singh, Lorcan Tucker (w), Shane Getkate, Mark Adair, Joshua Little, Barry McCarthy
Zimbabwe: Brendan Taylor, Wesley Madhevere, Regis Chkabva (w), Dion Myers, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Craig Ervine (c), Ryan Burl, Luke Jongwe, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngavara
Prediction:
Ireland should win this game.