IRE vs ZIM: Mark Adair Out, Craig Young Joins T20I Squad

IRE vs ZIM: Mark Adair Ruled Out, Craig Young Stays for T20I Series

HARARE, Zimbabwe – In an unexpected turn of events, Ireland Men’s cricket team has been hit with an injury setback ahead of their T20I series against Zimbabwe (ZIM). All-rounder Mark Adair has been ruled out of the upcoming matches due to a knee injury sustained during the third ODI on Tuesday. As a result, experienced pacer Craig Young, who was initially set to return home after the ODI series, will now remain in Harare as Adair’s replacement.

This change comes as a blow for IRE, as Adair has been a key player in their bowling attack. However, Young’s inclusion brings a wealth of experience to the squad, ensuring Ireland still has a strong pace lineup for the three-match series. The team management is hopeful that Young will step up to fill the void left by Adair and make an impact against ZIM.

Watch the Series Live

For cricket fans eager to witness the action unfold, the entire series will be streamed live on www.icc.tv. With both teams looking to make a statement in the T20I format, this series promises thrilling encounters between IRE and ZIM.

T20I Fixtures

The three-match T20I series kicks off on February 22, 2025, in Harare. The first two matches will be played in the afternoon, while the final game will be a day-night fixture. Here’s the complete schedule:

• 22 February 2025: 1st T20I – ZIM vs IRE (Harare; 1.30 PM local time)

• 23 February 2025: 2nd T20I – ZIM vs IRE (Harare; 1.30 PM local time)

• 25 February 2025: 3rd T20I – ZIM vs IRE (Harare; 6.30 PM local time, D/N match)

Note: Zimbabwe is +2 hours ahead of Ireland.

Ireland’s T20I Squad

With Young’s inclusion, Ireland’s T20I squad now looks as follows:

• Paul Stirling (c) (Northern Knights)

• Curtis Campher (Clontarf / Munster Reds)

• Gareth Delany (Leinster / Munster Reds)

• George Dockrell (Phoenix / Leinster Lightning)

• Fionn Hand (Clontarf / Leinster Lightning)

• Graham Hume (Waringstown / North West Warriors)

• Matthew Humphreys (Lisburn / Northern Knights)

• Josh Little (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)

• Neil Rock (Instonians / Northern Knights)

• Harry Tector (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)

• Tim Tector (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)

• Lorcan Tucker (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)

• Ben White (Phoenix / Munster Reds)

• Craig Young (North Down / North West Warriors)

Young’s addition ensures that IRE has an experienced pace attack for the T20I series. His ability to swing the ball and pick up crucial wickets makes him a valuable asset in their bid to secure a series win over ZIM.

Series Outlook

With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, this series is crucial for both teams as they fine-tune their squads. IRE will be looking to bounce back from their ODI series performance, while ZIM will aim to capitalize on home advantage. The absence of Adair is a setback for IRE, but with Young stepping in, the team remains competitive.

As the countdown to the first match begins, fans can gear up for an exciting series filled with high-energy cricket. Don’t forget to tune in to ICC.tv and catch every moment of the IRE vs ZIM battle!