Ireland will be looking to end the three-match series 1-1 by beating Zimbabwe on 13 September, in the third ODI at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Belfast. Zimbabwe won the series opener by 38 runs, and then, the second game was called off due to persistent rain.
This will be the final international game for Brendan Taylor, who made his debut for Zimbabwe in 2004. He has been one of the most recognised Zimbabwean cricketers, featuring 34 Tests, 204 ODIs, and 45 T20Is. If he manages to score 109 or more in this fixture, he could end up as the leading run-scorer of ODIs for his country, ahead of Andy Flower.
Ireland were chasing a stiff target of 267 in the first match. They collapsed once William Porterfield fell for 75, slipping from 163/2 to 228 all out. However, they came up with an improved show in the second game, as all their top six batters combined to guide them reach 282/8. But the torrential rain dampened their hopes after that, forcing abandonment.
Zimbabwe will be desperate to win this encounter to seal the series. That would help Taylor to wind up his career on a high. They do boast of a formidable batting unit, featuring Taylor, Regis Chakabva, Craig Ervine, and Sikandar Raza. From the bowling perspective, Blessing Muzarabani, who returned 4-29 in the first match, will be key for them again.
Betway Fantasy Tips
– Bet on Zimbabwe. Appoint Williams as captain. He can be handy with both bat and ball.
– Do not ignore Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie. They are highly dependable Irish top order batters.
– Simi Singh can be an excellent five-captain option. Include Mark Adair as well.
– Among wicket-keepers, pick Taylor and Chakabva, and overlook Tucker.
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, Josh 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
Expect a tight contest. Perhaps a Zimbabwean win.
Blitzpools Fantasy Team
Sean Williams (C), Simi Singh (VC), Regis Chakabva, Brendan Taylor, Andrew Balbirnie, Paul Stirling, William Porterfield, Craig Ervine, Luke Jongwe, Mark Adair, Blessing Muzarabani.