Brian Bennett scored 169 runs, leading Zimbabwe to a 49-run victory over Ireland in the first ODI. Zimbabwe posted 299 for five, while Ireland managed 250 all out. Key performances came from Bennett, Ervine, and bowler Muzarabani, setting the tone for the series as Zimbabwe leads 1-0.
In the first ODI of the three-match series, Brian Bennett recorded a remarkable 169, leading Zimbabwe to a 49-run victory over Ireland in Harare. The 21-year-old opener, aided by captain Craig Ervine’s 66, propelled Zimbabwe to a competitive total of 299 for five in 50 overs.
Despite a promising 73-run partnership between Ireland’s George Dockrell (32) and Andy McBrine (34), Ireland was bowled out for 250 in 46 overs. The Zimbabwean bowler Blessing Muzarabani shone with figures of 4 for 51, critical for the home side’s win.
Bennett, whose previous highest ODI score was 37, reflected on his performance: “I was lucky to get a chance to open and lucky that things went in my favour.” He appreciated the pitch conditions and acknowledged the importance of good starts in white-ball cricket.
Ervine praised Bennett’s batting, stating, “You have to capitalise on your chances, and he did.” He highlighted the significance of strong performances from openers, which allows others to play freely. The match was characterized by slow initial conditions before opening up later on.
Ireland’s captain, Paul Stirling, congratulated Bennett on his innings, stating, “We gave him a chance or two, and he punished us.” Stirling noted that their performance was lacking despite the favorable wicket, mentioning missed opportunities during critical overs.
Bennett was eventually dismissed in the last over, having faced 163 balls and struck 20 fours and three sixes, demonstrating impressive endurance at the crease. His innings came alongside a vital partnership with Ervine, which helped secure Zimbabwe’s seventh win out of twelve ODIs against Ireland in Harare.
As Ireland batted in response, they faced a strategic collapse with notable dismissals, including Lorcan Tucker (31) and Harry Tector (39). Despite the mid-innings efforts of Dockrell and McBrine, who provided some resistance, they couldn’t sustain the momentum, ultimately succumbing to Muzarabani’s bowling.
The teams will meet again for the next two ODIs on Sunday and Tuesday, followed by a T20 series. Ireland had previously triumphed in a one-off Test against Zimbabwe by 63 runs, setting the stage for a competitive series ahead.
Zimbabwe leads the ODI series against Ireland 1-0 following a decisive victory in the first match. Brian Bennett’s stellar 169 runs marked a significant achievement, complemented by Craig Ervine’s solid performance. Blessing Muzarabani’s bowling efforts were crucial in dismantling the Irish batting lineup. The series continues with two more ODIs, raising anticipation for potential Irish recovery.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
