KEY POINTS
- Ben Curran’s unbeaten 118 led Zimbabwe to a nine-wicket win.
- Zimbabwe secured their first home ODI series win since 2023.
- The teams now prepare for a three-match T20 series.
Zimbabwe won the three-match ODI series 2-1 on Tuesday at Harare Sports Club thanks in large part to Ben Curran’s nine-wicket victory over Ireland.
Zimbabwe clinches ODI series after dominant nine-wicket win
At Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe defeated Ireland in a Test match last week; the victory helped them recover. After Zimbabwe had won the first ODI by 49 runs, it was followed by a seven-wicket defeat in the second ODI, which tied the series.
According to New Zimbabwe, Ireland lost six wickets while scoring 240 runs in 50 overs after batting first. The opening combination of Curran and Brian Bennett, who put together 124 runs before Bennett was dismissed, spearheaded Zimbabwe’s successful chase in response.
After that, captain Craig Ervine scored 69 more runs, and Curran, who was still undefeated, reached his first ODI century with 118 off 130 balls. He won Player of the Match for his performance, which was the fourth-fastest century in Zimbabwe’s ODI history.
Historic home win ends Zimbabwe’s ODI drought
In an interview after the game, Curran stated, “It’s an unbelievable feeling, and winning the series is big for us.” “I’m just glad to help. I’m happy to be a part of this, and it feels wonderful.
It was Zimbabwe’s first home victory in an ODI series since a 2023 victory over the Netherlands. Last year, the team had a rough season and had lost all of its home ODI series.
The three-match T20 series between Zimbabwe and Ireland is currently set for February 22, 24, and 26.
