Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE’S Under-19 cricket side survived early jitters to register a thrilling four-wicket victory over Ireland in their first One-Day International (ODI) at Harare Sports Club yesterday.
Electing to bowl first, Zimbabwe’s pace attack drew first blood in the eighth over when Panashe Mazai forced an edge from James West, which wicketkeeper Kupakwashe Muradzi gleefully pouched.
The Irish batsmen fought back, building a solid second-wicket stand before Michael and Kian Blignaut combined to break the partnership in the 28th over. Freddie Ogilby was caught by Kian off Michael’s delivery, shifting the momentum back in Zimbabwe’s favor.
From there, it was all Zimbabwe as they tightened the screws. Shelton Mazvitorera bowled Adam Leckey in the 33rd over, triggering a collapse that saw Ireland lose their final seven wickets for just 65 runs, bowled out for 236 in 48 overs.
Mazai and Tatenda Chimugoro starred with the ball, each grabbing three wickets, while Mazvitorera took two. Michael Blignaut contributed a crucial breakthrough as well.
Set 237 for victory, Zimbabwe’s chase got off to a nightmare start, losing Dhruv Patel for a duck in the first over. The pressure mounted as two more wickets fell in quick succession, reducing Zimbabwe to 39/3.
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