Ireland Under-19s vs Zimbabwe Under-19s: ODI Series Preview & Fixtures

A New Chapter: Ireland Under-19s Embark on First-Ever Tour to Zimbabwe

The Ireland Under-19s Men’s cricket team has landed in Harare for a five-match Youth One-Day International (YODI) series against Zimbabwe Under-19s Men, beginning April 3, 2025. This is more than just another youth series it’s a landmark occasion as Ireland Under-19s make their first-ever tour to Zimbabwe. And it couldn’t come at a better time. With the ICC Under-19s World Cup 2026 on the horizon, this series acts as a pivotal preparatory phase, giving Ireland’s young guns the chance to test themselves in the very conditions they’ll likely encounter in the tournament next year.

Coach Peter Johnston has expressed strong optimism about the squad’s depth and readiness, and there’s good reason for his confidence. Ireland Under-19s come into this tour fresh from a solid showing at the 2024 ICC Under-19s Men’s World Cup, where they finished eighth securing automatic qualification for the 2026 edition. They also notched a memorable win against New Zealand Under-19s, their first-ever at that level.

Bowling with Bite: Ireland U19’s Attack Loaded with Variety and Experience

If there’s one area where Ireland Under-19s look particularly sharp heading into this tour, it’s the bowling department. The pace attack is led by Reuben Wilson and Olly Riley, both of whom bring previous World Cup experience to the table. Wilson is even on track to make his third Under-19s World Cup appearance in 2026, a rare feat in youth cricket. That kind of seasoned presence is invaluable, especially in unfamiliar overseas conditions.

Joining them are a promising group of pacers including Ethan Marshall, Thomas Ford, Daniel Murray, and Adam Leckey, each bringing their own distinct style to the crease. According to Johnston, winter training has seen a significant uptick in bowling speeds, which should serve them well in Zimbabwean conditions where early morning moisture can offer plenty for seamers.

On the spin front, the Ireland Under-19s have dual threats in Febin Manoj, an off-spinner, and Sebastian Dijkstra, a developing leggie whose bowling has impressed across multiple age levels. Spin will undoubtedly play a major role in Zimbabwe, where dry pitches later in the day often grip and turn sharply.

Top-Order Expectations: Ireland Under-19s Batting Looks Solid and Versatile

As for the batting, Ireland Under-19s look balanced and equipped for most situations. Left-hander Rob O’Brien, who recently returned from a Cricket Leinster exchange program in South Africa, is likely to be key in stabilizing the middle order. He has valuable experience both with the Ireland Academy and in prior Under-19 matches.

At the top of the order, James West and Freddie Ogilby will be looked upon to set the platform. Their consistency and strike rotation could be crucial in neutralizing Zimbabwe’s early attack. Interestingly, Seb Dijkstra, better known for his leg-spin, has also evolved into a credible batting option over the winter, giving Ireland Under-19s a genuine all-round option.

Dynamic young batters like Adam Leckey and Daniel Murray provide explosive potential in the latter stages, while Seb Yeats, more of a traditional batter, has quietly built a reputation for dependability. In an otherwise all-rounder-heavy lineup, Yeats’s role could become increasingly important if Ireland lose quick wickets upfront. 

Zimbabwe Conditions Await: Early Starts, Spin, and Tactical Adjustments

Each match of the Under-19s ODI series begins at 9:15am local time an early start that could tilt the balance in favor of the bowlers. The first three games will be played at Harare Sports Club, a venue known for favoring seam movement in morning sessions before drying out and slowing down. The final two fixtures will shift to Takashinga, another ground that can assist spinners as the day progresses.

Coach Johnston acknowledged the early start time and has adjusted the team's preparation accordingly. Whether Ireland bowl first or bat first, the focus is on adapting and executing a well-rounded gameplan. These are not just warm-up matches they’re dry runs for navigating subcontinental-style conditions under pressure, as they’ll likely face in ICC Under-19s 2026.

Series Fixtures and Streaming Info

The five-match Ireland Under-19s vs Zimbabwe Under-19s series runs from April 3 to April 12. Fans can follow all the action via live scoring at cricketireland.ie, and a livestream will also be available. With Zimbabwe having a strong cricketing pedigree at the youth level, this promises to be a competitive and revealing series for both sides.

Ireland Under-19s: Building for the Future

This series isn't just about winning it’s about learning. The tour to Zimbabwe marks a new chapter in Irish youth cricket development. By giving these players international exposure in challenging conditions, Cricket Ireland is laying down the groundwork for long-term success. It’s also a chance for fringe players to stake a claim ahead of the World Cup, as Johnston has made clear that selections remain open.

With experienced players like Riley and Wilson guiding a promising younger cohort, this group has the right mix of leadership and youthful hunger. A competitive showing in Zimbabwe will not only build momentum but also give the selectors a clearer picture of the squad's spine for 2026.

Final Thoughts

Ireland Under-19s’ tour of Zimbabwe is more than just a bilateral series it’s a test of character, adaptability, and skill under foreign conditions. The trip offers a rare chance for these young athletes to step outside familiar environments and take on a team with depth and local experience. If the preparation, talent, and mindset align, this tour could very well mark the rise of the next generation of Irish cricket stars.

Stay tuned, because what happens over the next two weeks in Harare and Takashinga could have a major say in Ireland’s fortunes at the Under-19s World Cup in early 2026.