Ireland on the Brink of Victory Against ZIM in Only Test

Ireland Tightens Grip on Only Test Against Zimbabwe

A gripping third day at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, saw Ireland (IRE) tighten their hold over Zimbabwe (ZIM), reducing the hosts to 38/3 in their 292-run chase. With Andrew Balbirnie (66) and Lorcan Tucker (58) leading the charge with the bat and Barry McCarthy (4-75) and Mark Adair striking early with the ball, Ireland now stands just seven wickets away from victory.

However, with rain forecasted for the final two days, IRE will be hoping the weather holds as they push for a famous Test win.

Ireland's Second Innings: Fifties & Fightbacks

Resuming at 83/1, Ireland looked to extend their lead with Balbirnie and Curtis Campher building a solid foundation. The pair put on a 75-run stand, but Trevor Gwandu made the breakthrough, dismissing Campher for 39.

Balbirnie, leading from the front, notched up his fifth Test half-century as IRE reached 149/2 at lunch. However, Zimbabwe’s bowlers roared back after the break.

Jonathan Campbell dismissed Harry Tector (17) for his maiden Test wicket.

Balbirnie (66) was undone by Wessly Madhevere’s sharp turn.

Paul Stirling (21) fell to Blessing Muzarabani, caught behind in controversial fashion.

Tucker Holds Firm, Ngarava Strikes Hard

With wickets tumbling, Lorcan Tucker stepped up with a crucial 58, holding the innings together. But Zimbabwe’s attack, led by Richard Ngarava (4-55), struck with the second new ball, wiping out the lower order.

Tucker was the last man out on 58, leaving IRE bowled out for 298, setting ZIM a record 292-run chase. No team in Zimbabwe has successfully chased over 200 in Tests, making this a daunting task.

Zimbabwe’s Chase: Ireland Strikes Early

Defending 292, Ireland’s bowlers wasted no time in making an impact.

 Barry McCarthy removed Ben Curran (4), repeating his first-innings dismissal.
 Mark Adair castled Takudzwanashe Kaitano (14) with a peach of a delivery.
 Matthew Humphreys deceived Nick Welch (0), who fell LBW after a superbly flighted delivery.

At 38/3, Zimbabwe still needs 254 runs to pull off a historic chase, but with Ireland’s bowlers in top form, it looks like an uphill battle for the hosts.

Final Day: Ireland Eyes Victory, Zimbabwe Prays for Rain

With the weather forecast uncertain, Ireland will be eager to finish the job quickly. On the other hand, Zimbabwe will be hoping to survive as long as possible or for rain to come to their rescue.

Will Ireland claim a historic win, or can Zimbabwe defy the odds and fight back? The final day promises thrilling Test cricket.