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The stage is set for an exciting second ODI between Zimbabwe and Ireland at the iconic Harare Sports Club. After a thrilling first encounter, both teams will be eager to gain the upper hand in this three-match series. With the series on the line, expect a fiercely competitive contest as both sides look to fine-tune their preparations ahead of future international commitments.
Zimbabwe, led by the experienced Craig Ervine, will be looking to build on their home advantage. The hosts boast a mix of youth and experience, with the likes of Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams providing stability in the middle order. Raza, in particular, will be a key player, given his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
The opening pair of Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ben Curran will aim to provide a solid start, while the bowling attack, spearheaded by Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava, will look to exploit any early movement on the Harare pitch. The inclusion of young talents like Brian Bennett and Newman Nyamhuri adds depth to the squad, giving Zimbabwe a balanced look.
Ireland, captained by the dynamic Paul Stirling, will be determined to bounce back after a disappointing first ODI. Stirling’s explosive batting at the top of the order will be crucial, alongside the experienced Andrew Balbirnie and the in-form Harry Tector. Lorcan Tucker, the wicketkeeper-batter, will also play a vital role in stabilizing the middle order.
Ireland’s bowling attack, featuring the likes of Joshua Little, Mark Adair, and Craig Young, will aim to exploit any weaknesses in Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. The spin department, led by Andy McBrine and George Dockrell, could prove decisive on a pitch that traditionally offers some assistance to slower bowlers.
Match Details: ZIM vs IRE, 2nd ODI
- Date and Time: February 16, 7:30 am GMT/ 01:00 pm IST/ 09:30 am local
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Harare Sports Club Pitch Report
The Harare Sports Club is renowned for its balanced yet challenging surface, offering a fair contest between bat and ball. The pitch provides good bounce and pace, allowing batters to play their shots with confidence once they settle in. However, the early overs can be tricky, as the surface tends to offer some movement for the pacers, making the new ball phase crucial for both teams.
Captain winning the toss may prefer to bowl first, aiming to exploit the early assistance for seamers before the pitch settles into a more batting-friendly surface as the game progresses.
ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Prediction Picks:
- Wicketkeepers: Lorcan Tucker
- Batters: Paul Stirling, Craig Ervine, Andrew Balbirnie, Brian Bennett
- All-rounders: Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Andy McBrine, Curtis Campher
- Bowlers: Mark Adair, Blessing Muzarabani
ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:
- Choice 1: Sikandar Raza (c), Curtis Campher (vc)
- Choice 2: Andrew Balbirnie (c), Blessing Muzarabani (vc)
Also READ: Fans react as Brian Benett’s masterclass paves the way for Zimbabwe’s dominance over Ireland in the 1st ODI
ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Prediction Backups:
Joshua Little, Craig Young, Richard Ngarava, Tadiwanashe Marumani
ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Team for today’s match (February 16, 7:30 am GMT):
Squads:
Zimbabwe: Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Ben Curran, Craig Ervine (c), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Wessly Madhevere, Newman Nyamhuri, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu, Nyasha Mayavo, Johnathan Campbell, Tinotenda Maposa
Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Andrew Balbirnie, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Morgan Topping, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Andy McBrine, Mark Adair, Joshua Little, Gavin Hoey, Graham Hume, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young
