IRE vs ZIM T20I Series 2025: A Thrilling Battle in Harare

IRE vs ZIM T20I Series 2025: A High-Stakes Showdown

HARARE, Zimbabwe – The much-anticipated T20I series between Ireland (IRE) and Zimbabwe (ZIM) is set to kick off on February 22, 2025, promising an electrifying contest. After an ODI series filled with thrilling moments, IRE will be eager to bounce back and make their mark in the shortest format. Fans can catch all the action live on ICC.tv.

This series brings back memories of their last bilateral T20I encounter in December 2023, where IRE emerged victorious 2-1 in ZIM. However, earlier that year, the tables had turned when ZIM secured a 2-1 series win. With both teams having tasted success against each other, expect a fiercely contested battle this time around.

Fionn Hand Joins IRE Squad

With Barry McCarthy ruled out due to injury, Fionn Hand steps in as a replacement. Speaking from the team hotel, Hand expressed his excitement:

"It's fantastic to get back on grass wickets and feel the pressure again, with the sun on my back. There's nothing like being out there in the thick of it."

Reflecting on the conditions at Harare Sports Club, Hand observed the variability in bounce and the advantage of batting second. While adapting to the conditions will be key, he emphasized the importance of staying flexible, especially for the final T20I under lights.

"The last match being a day-night game adds a new challenge. We've had experience with such conditions in Abu Dhabi against South Africa, but this will be different. We're confident and ready to build on last year’s series win."

Key Battles and Players to Watch

Both teams boast strong line-ups with game-changers in their squads. IRE’s Paul Stirling, with 147 T20I caps and over 3,600 runs, will be crucial at the top, while Josh Little, a key name in the T20 franchise circuit, will lead the bowling attack. Another exciting player to watch is Lorcan Tucker, who was moved to the top order during the SA series but couldn’t fully showcase his abilities due to injury.

For ZIM, Sikandar Raza, their veteran all-rounder and captain, brings a wealth of experience in both batting and off-spin bowling. On the bowling front, Blessing Muzarabani will be a major threat, utilizing the extra bounce at Harare Sports Club. Ryan Burl, with his variations in leg-spin, will test IRE’s batters in crucial middle overs.

The Venue: Harare Sports Club

Zimbabwe’s premier cricket venue is known for offering bounce and movement to fast bowlers. Fans can look forward to an electric atmosphere at Castle Corner, where music, dancing, and passionate cricket supporters will add to the spectacle.

• Avg. 1st innings score: 153

• Avg. 2nd innings score: 133

• Highest total: 234-2 (IND vs ZIM, 2023)

• Lowest total: 90-9 (ZIM vs AFG, 2022)

• Highest chase: 194-5 (BAN vs ZIM, 2021)

• Lowest defended: 115-9 (ZIM vs IND, 2024)

Series Fixtures

• 1st T20I – 22 February 2025, Harare (1:30 PM local)

• 2nd T20I – 23 February 2025, Harare (1:30 PM local)

• 3rd T20I – 25 February 2025, Harare (6:30 PM local, D/N)

Note: Zimbabwe is +2 hours ahead of Ireland.

Squads for IRE vs ZIM T20I Series

Ireland T20I Squad:

Paul Stirling (c), Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Neil Rock, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young.

Zimbabwe T20I Squad:

Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Johnathan Campbell, Trevor Gwandu, Wessly Madhevere, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Nyasha Mayavo, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri.

Final Thoughts

The upcoming IRE vs ZIM T20I series promises to be an action-packed contest with both teams having a lot to prove. With experienced stars and young talents set to showcase their skills, fans can expect edge-of-the-seat entertainment. Don’t miss the matches live on ICC.tv and stay tuned for all the latest updates!