Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S Under-19 cricketers are one win away from claiming a series whitewash win over their visiting Irish counterparts.
The Young Chevrons extended their series win against Ireland with a comprehensive six wicket victory in the fourth One Day International at Takashinga Sports Club yesterday.
The hosts have already secured the series after making it four wins on the bounce.
Now, they will face the Irish at Takashinga again tomorrow, seeking to make it a clean sweep.
After winning the toss, the hosts opted to field, sending Ireland in to bat first.
It was an improved performance from the visitors as it took 11 overs for Zimbabwe to break the opening partnership of James West and Freddie Ogilby.
Ogillby was bowled out by Simbarashe Mudzengerere with the last ball of the 11th over before West was dismissed two balls later with a leg-before-wicket (lbw) from Brendon Senzere delivery.
Ireland were to add 30 more runs to their tally before losing their third wicket of the day in the 21st over.
Sebastian Yeattes was bowled out by Michael Blignaut
At this stage the visitors were 70 for the loss of three wickets.
Ireland managed to take control of their innings taking a good stand between the wickets as Adam Leckey scored 88 runs off 86 balls before being dismissed with the last ball of the innings.
He was caught out by Benny Zuze off a Marshall Mashava delivery.
Ireland set Zimbabwe a target off 242 runs after seeing off their inning with the loss of six wickets.
Out to chase a target of 243 to win Zimbabwe had an early scare to their chase as they lost their first wicket in the 8th over for 31 runs.
Opener Rowyn Konson was dismissed for 11 runs of 28 balls after being caught out by Robert Obrien off a Thomas Ford delivery.
The early scare could not put Zimbabwe under pressure as they went on to lose their second wicket 20 overs later.
Leeroy Chiwaula was named Player of the Match and ensured Zimbabwe cruised to their fourth win of the series with 77 runs off 99 balls chasing the target of 242 target.
And they successfully achieved that target in 46 overs for the loss of four.
