Brian Bennett delivered a spectacular performance, scoring a career-best 169 to guide Zimbabwe to a 49-run victory over Ireland in the first ODI held in Harare. This innings marked his maiden ODI century, achieved in just his seventh appearance.

Match Highlights

• Zimbabwe Innings: Bennett's 163-ball knock included 20 fours and three sixes, propelling Zimbabwe to a formidable total of 299-5. Skipper Craig Ervine provided solid support with a well-compiled 66.
• Ireland Innings: Despite a promising start, Ireland stumbled to 169-6 after being 109-2. Curtis Campher (44) and Paul Stirling (32) were the main contributors, but the middle order failed to capitalize.
• Key Bowlers: Blessing Muzarabani was the star with the ball for Zimbabwe, taking 4-51, while Richard Ngarava claimed 3-56 to dismantle the Irish batting lineup.

Turning Point

Ireland seemed to be recovering through a 73-run partnership between George Dockrell (34) and Andy McBrine (32), but Muzarabani's double strike in the 45th over effectively ended their chase.

Series Context

This victory gives Zimbabwe a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The second match is scheduled for Sunday in Harare, followed by the final game on Tuesday. Ireland’s tour of Zimbabwe, which began with a Test victory in Bulawayo, will conclude with a three-match T20 series.

Injury Update

Ireland's seamer Barry McCarthy is sidelined due to an abdominal injury, with Jordan Neill stepping in for the remaining ODIs. Neill, who captained Ireland at the Under-19 World Cup, joins the squad from South Africa.

This match not only highlighted Bennett’s rising star but also underscored Zimbabwe's potential in the ODI format, setting the stage for an exciting series.