Ben Curran delivered a batting masterclass, scoring his maiden ODI century as Zimbabwe secured a nine-wicket victory over Ireland to clinch their first series win in two years at Harare Sports Club
Earlier on Ireland posted 240 for 6 in their allotted 50 overs after being put in to bat under overcast conditions.
The visitors had a sluggish start, losing Paul Stirling 9 runs and Curtis Campher 11 early to leave them at 42 for 2 after 13 overs.
However, captain Andy Balbirnie 64 runs and Lorcan Tucker 61 runs steadied the innings with a crucial partnership, ensuring Ireland set a competitive total. Gareth Delany chipped in with an unbeaten 35, giving Ireland a late boost.
Zimbabwe’s seamers were effective throughout, with Richard Ngarava and Trevor Gwandu taking two wickets each, while Blessing Muzarabani claimed one.
In response, Zimbabwe’s chase was clinical. Curran and Brian Bennett laid a solid foundation with a 109-run opening stand in just 16.3 overs before a brief rain delay.
Upon resumption, Bennett fell for 48 just two runs short of a second ODI half-century.
Curran, however, remained composed, anchoring the innings beautifully. He brought up his first international century in style and stayed unbeaten on 118, guiding Zimbabwe home alongside captain Craig Ervine’s 69 runs Their unbroken 120-run stand sealed the victory in just 39.3 overs.
For Curran, it was a statement innings. After struggling for consistency in previous matches, he finally converted a start into a big score.
His composure under pressure and ability to rotate the strike made the difference in a chase that could have been tricky.
With the series wrapped up 2-1, Zimbabwe now turns its attention to the T20I series against Ireland, starting Saturday, February 22, at Harare Sports Club.
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