Ireland and Zimbabwe will be up against each other in the fourth T20I of the five-match series at Bready Cricket Club, on Thursday, 2 September. Zimbabwe need to win the game to keep the series alive.
Ireland registered a comfortable 40-run defeat in the last T20I. Paul Stirling notched his maiden T20I ton to propel his team to an imposing total of 178. Promoted to No. 4, Shane Getkate responded with an 11-ball 19.
Harry Tector was replaced by William McClintock, who did not get an opportunity with bat or ball. He is likely to retain his place for today’s game. Ireland have previously tried Curtis Campher and Harry Tector in the series.
Mark Adair, their leading fast bowler, played in the third T20I after missing the first two, and picked three wickets. Barry McCarthy, who conceded 40 runs and went wicketless in the last game, has to make way for him. Ireland are likely to go unchanged.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, may replace Tadiwanashe Marumani, who has 14, 11, 1 in the series, and Tinashe Kamunhukamwe at the top. The batting unit has been prone to collapse. Ryan Burl, one of their consistent run-getters, may earn a promotion.
On the bowling front, there is still no confirmation on the availability of Blessing Muzarabani. Devoid of him, the bowling unit does not exude much confidence. Tendai Chatara conceded 47 runs from his quota of four overs in the last game.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- The opening pair of Stirling and O’Brien is in great form. Pick both.
- Getkate and Burl are ideal players for the fantasy team. They are equally adept with both bat and ball.
- Among bowlers, pick Mark Adair and Wellington Masakadza.
Probable XIs
Ireland: Ady Balbirnie (c), Neil Rock (wk), Paul Stirling, Kevin O’Brien, Curtis Campher, Shane Getkate, George Dockrell, Simi Singh, Barry McCarthy, Josh Little.
Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Regis Chakabva (wk), Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Luke Jongwe, Milton Shumba, Wellington Masakadza, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani.
Prediction:
This should be a closely contested fight, and expect Zimbabwe to bounce back.
BlitzPools Fantasy XI
Regis Chakabva, Paul Stirling (vc) Kevin O'Brien, Craig Ervine, Ryan Burl (c), Shane Getkate, Simi Singh, Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Mark Adair, Craig Young.
