In a gripping encounter at Queens Sports Club, Ireland triumphed by 63 runs against Zimbabwe in a one-off Test match, sealing their third consecutive Test victory and cem??enting their growing reputation in the longest format.

Left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys emerged as the hero, claiming a decisive seven-wic??ket match haul, including critical breakthroughs on a tense fifth day that saw Zimbabwe crumble from 105-4 to 228 all out while chasing 292.

Dramatic final day unfolds in Bulawayo

Resuming day five at 183-7, Zimbabwe needed 109 more runs, with hopes pinned on Wesley Madhevere and nightwatchman Newman Nyamhuri. However, Humphreys struck early, trapping Nyamhuri lbw in the third over. The dismissal ignited Irish momentum, but Madhevere’s resistance kept Zimbabwe in contention. The hosts�?aspirations nosedived when Humphreys bowled Madhevere with a sharp-turning delivery, ending his 195-ball vigil. The collapse accelerated as Zimbabwe lost their last wicket for just 10 runs, with Andy McBrine seali??ng the win by cleaning up Richard Ngarava, sparking jubilation am??ong the Irish camp.

Matthew Humphreys shines in his debut series

The 22-year-old Humphreys, playing only his second Test, finished?? with figures of 6/57 in the second innings and 7/95 overall?, exploiting a wearing pitch with precision.

A?? historic spel?l from Irishman Matthew Humphreys! 👏

His 6/57, the best ever bowling figures for an Irishman in Tests, led Ireland to a famous victory over Zimbabwe! 💪#ZIMvIREonFanCode pic.twitter.com/IvXHiLSKQR

— FanCode (@FanCode) February 10, 2025

Ireland’s remarkable recovery

The victory seemed improbable after Ireland’s disastrous start on day one, collapsing to 31-5. A stunning 127-run seventh-wicket partnership between McBrine (90*) and Mark Adair (78) revived the innings, steering Ireland to 260. Their efforts, coupled with Ireland’s second-innings total of 298, set up a competitive target. McBrine, later named Player of the Match, underscored his all-round value by contributing 3/59 with his off-spin in Zimbabwe’s first innings (267), complementing Barry Mc??Carthy’s 4/75.

Player of the match: Andy McBrine 🥇 #Cricket #ZIMvIRE #AndyMcBrine pic.twitter.com/Cl11P7d6qO

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 10, 2025

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025 – Zimbabwe T20I captain Sikandar Raza predicts the four-semifinalists

Zimbabwe’s chase falls short

Zimbabwe’s chase began terribly, with half their side returning back to the ?pavilion for just 105. Madhevere’s gritty 84, featuring 8 boundaries, kep?t the hosts in the hunt until Humphreys�?intervention on the final day.

Ireland beat Zimbabwe by 63 runs in the one-off Test at Queens Sports Club.#ZIMvIRE #VisitZimbabwe 📝 //t.co/X29g0BJkSb pic.twitter.com/ZUBH6ptU5J

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) February 10, 2025

Ireland’s rising Test pedigree

This victory extends Ireland’s Test-winning streak, following their maiden win over Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi in March 2023 and a 2023 home victory against Zimbabwe in Belfast. Since gaining Test status in 2017, Ireland h??as shown rapid growth, blending resilience with tactical acumen.

The win in Bulawayo underscores Ireland’s adaptability to subcontinental-like conditions, having previously succeeded in Abu Dhabi. For Zimbabwe, ranked higher in Tests, the loss highlights persistent batting frailties.

Now, the focus of both teams will shift to the upcoming three one-day internationals, starting in Harare on Friday (F?ebruary 14), before playing as many T20Is.

Also READ: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma reve??als why Champions Trophy is more challenging than World Cup

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The three-match ODI series between Ireland and South Africa is set to begin on Wednesday, October 2, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. This series, with matches scheduled on October 2, 4, and 7, will be a crucial opportunity for both teams to assess their form ahead of future ICC tournament in the form of Champions Trophy 2025.

Team rankings and form

South Africa, currently ranked third in the ICC men’s ODI team rankings, will enter the series as the potential favorite. With a well-rounded squad boasting both experience and youth, the Proteas will be keen to extend their dominance in the 50-over format. However, Ireland, ranked 12th, will be eager to prove themselves and pull off a surprise. Although Ireland sits lower in the rankings, they will derive confidence from their recent success in Abu Dhabi, particularly from their historic T20I win over South Africa, where they managed to level the series 1-1.

Also WATCH: Matthew Humphreys dismisses Aiden Markram with a beauty as Ireland clinches a h?istoric victory in the 2nd T20I

Head-to-Head record against South Africa

Historically, South Africa have been dominant in the ODI format, winning six out of their eight encounters against Ireland. Ireland has only managed to win one match, while one game ended with no result. Nevertheless, Ireland will be motivated by their recent progress and look to improve their record against the Proteas. The Ireland team for the ODI series will be spearheaded by Paul Stirling, whose leadership will be crucial in setting the tone f?or the squad??.

Ireland’s top-choice playing XI for ODI series against South Africa: 

1. Paul Stirling will lead the side as captain and open the batting. Known for his aggressive style, Stirling is one of Ireland’s most experienced players and plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the innings. His explosive starts can put immediate pressure on the opposition bowlers, making him a key player in Ireland’s strategy against South Africa.

2. Stephen Doheny, who will take on the wicketkeeping duties, is an aggressive batter known for his ability t??o score runs quickly. His inclusion adds depth to the batting lineup and allows for dynamic partnerships at the top. As a wicketkeepe??r-batter, Doheny’s skills behind the stumps provide reliability and support to the bowling attack.

3. Andrew Balbirnie, who also serves as an opener, brings solid technique and experience to the batting lineup??. His ability to anchor the innings is essential for building partnerships, especially with a dynamic player like Stirling at the other end. Balbirnie’s stability can help Ireland navigate the early overs and establish a strong foundation for the innings.

4. In the middle order, Curtis Campher adds both batting prowess and bowling options as an all-rounder. Known for his quick scoring ability, Campher can accelerate the run rate during the middle overs, making him a crucial asset in shifting momentum. Additionally, his right-arm medium pace can provide key breakthroughs when needed, making him an important p??layer in both phases of the game.

5. Lorcan Tucker is a talented batter and is recognized for his strong batting performances and ability to?? anchor the innings. His role in building ??partnerships and finishing innings will be crucial against strong bowling lineups.

6. George Dockrell, primarily a spin bowler, brings control to the bowling attack. His ability to take wickets in the middle overs while restricting the flow of runs will be vital against a powerful South African batting lineup. Dockrell’s experience in international cricket adds depth to the bowling options and helps maintain pressure on opposing batters.

7. Mark Adair, an all-rounder, is another vital component of the team. His dual capability to contribute with both bat and ball allows Ireland to be adaptable in different match situations. Adair can score quick runs in the middle order and is also a valuable wicket-taking option, especially in crucial moments. His versatility will be instrumental in balancing the team’s performance.

8. Gavin Hoey, another all-rounder, is recognized for his versatility and adaptability. He can play crucial roles depend?ing on the match situation, whether it’s stabilizing the innings or providing acceleration. Hoey’s con??tributions with both bat and ball make him a valuable asset to the team.

9. In the bowling department, Fionn Hand brings raw pace and wicket-taking ability as a right-arm fast bowler. His effectiveness in taking early wickets is esse??ntial, especially when facing a formidable batting lineup like South Africa’s. Hand’s ability to generate movement can trouble opposing batters, making him a critical player for Irela??nd.

10. Graham Hume, a left-arm fast bowler, is known for his accuracy and movement, particularly in the death ove??rs. His control in the final stages of the innings will be crucial for restricting runs and taking vital wickets. Hume’s experience and skill set make him a key figure in Ireland’s bowling attack.

11. Finally, Andy McBrine, another all-rounder, provides consistency with both bat and ball. His off-spin bowling is valuable in controlling runs, while his ability to contribute with the bat ensures depth in the middle order. McBrine’s all-round capabilities make him an integral part of Ireland’s lineup, enhancing their competitiveness against South Africa.

Also READ: Cricket South Africa?? anno??unces squad for Test series against Bangladesh

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In a gripping encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Ireland edged out South Africa by 10 runs in the second T20I, leveling the two-match series at 1-1. The match was a must-win for Ireland following their loss in the first T20I, and it showcased both the resilience of the Irish team and the exceptional talent of their players, particularly Matthew Humphreys and Ross Adair.

Matthew Humphreys�?decisive dismissal

The drama unfolded in the 14th over of South Africa’s innings when Humphreys delivered a stunning spell of spin bowling. He clean-bowled South African captain Aiden Markram, who had been looking to take control of the match. Markram, attempting a premeditated reverse sweep, misjudged the delivery, which turned sharply and clipped off-stump after flicking his pad. Markram’s dismissal came after scoring just 8 runs off 5 balls, a critical blow to the Proteas’ chase of 196 runs. Humphreys’ bowling was pivotal, showcasing his skill and marking a significant moment in the match.

Here is the video:

YESSS!!!

Matthew Humphreys has cleaned up Aiden Markram!

South Africa need 66 runs from 38 balls

▪️ Ireland 195-6 (20 overs)
▪️ South Africa 130-3 (13.4 overs)

SCORE: //t.co/DORHHXP6pc
MATCH PROGRAMME: //t.co/sKRI98cTxO
WATCH: ROI/UK: TNT Sports 4
WATCH ELSEWHERE:�?pic.twitter.com/dd4NLKevXh

— Cricket Ireland (@cricketireland) September 29, 2024

Also READ: 5 South African players to watch out for in ?the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Historic win for Ireland

Ireland, batting first, set a formidable target of 196 runs, finishing their innings at 195/6 in 20 overs. Ross was the standout performer, smashing a remarkable century. He scored 100 runs off just 58 balls, including 5 fours and an impressive 9 sixes, achieving a strike rate of 172.41. Adair’s explosive batting laid a solid foundation for Ireland, putting them in a strong position against the Proteas.

In response, South Africa fought valiantly but fell short, managing to score 185 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted overs. Both Reeza Hendricks and Matthew Breetzke contributed significantly to the chase, each scoring half-centuries. However, their efforts were stifled by Ireland’s bowlers, particularly Mark Adair, who excelled with the ball, taking 4 wickets in his 4-over spell and conceding just? 31 runs.

This victory marks a significant milestone for Irish cricket, as it was their first-ever win over South Africa in T20I cricket. Ross’ century earned him the Player of the Match award, and his performance, combined with the bowling heroics of Mark and Humphreys, ensured Ireland leveled the series.

With the series tied 1-1, the two teams now turn their attention to a three-match ODI series, which kicks off on Wednesday, October 2nd. Both sides will be eager to carry their momentum into the 50-over format, with the tour promising ?more thrilling cricket action.

Also READ: IRE vs SA 2024, T20I Series: Broadcast & Live Streaming details �?When and where to?? watch in India, Pakistan, South Africa, UK and other countries

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