Zimbabwe vs Ireland Prediction: Who Will Win ZIM vs IRE 32nd T20 Match on 17th February 2026?
The Zimbabwe vs Ireland prediction for the 32nd T20 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 sets up a thrilling Group B encounter at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, 17th February 2026. Zimbabwe have emerged as one of the surprise packages of the tournament, registering a massive win over Australia and climbing to second place in the standings. Their balanced approach — disciplined batting and sharp pace bowling — has been central to their success. Blessing Muzarabani has been sensational with 7 wickets in 2 matches, including a match-winning 4/17 against Australia.
Ireland, meanwhile, revived their campaign with a commanding 96-run victory over Oman. Lorcan Tucker’s unbeaten 94 off 51 balls was one of the standout knocks of the tournament. With both teams still mathematically in contention for the Super 8, this fixture holds immense importance. Historically, the rivalry has been evenly matched, with both teams winning 8 games each in 18 meetings.
Pallekele conditions often favor chasing teams, with 3 of the last 5 matches won by sides batting second. Zimbabwe’s momentum and bowling discipline give them a slight edge, but Ireland’s explosive middle order makes them dangerous opponents. Cricketwebs provide best match prediction tips for every cricket match, and this contest promises a tightly fought battle.
- Zimbabwe’s Momentum: Zimbabwe stunned Australia in their previous match and now sit second in Group B. Their disciplined batting and lethal pace attack, led by Muzarabani, have made them serious Super 8 contenders.
- Ireland’s Middle-Order Strength: Lorcan Tucker’s 94* against Oman showcased Ireland’s batting potential. Dockrell and Delany provide finishing power, but top-order inconsistency remains a concern.
- Bowling Battle: Muzarabani (7 wickets) vs Josh Little and Barry McCarthy could define the outcome. Early breakthroughs will shape the contest.
- Pallekele Factor: The pitch offers assistance to seamers early and becomes slower later. Chasing has been slightly advantageous, making toss crucial.
Match Details
| Match | ZIM vs IRE, 32nd T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 17th February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 PM Local Time |
| Venue | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium |
| Tournament | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
Team Previews
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe have been one of the most impressive teams in this edition of the T20 World Cup, exceeding expectations with disciplined cricket and tactical maturity. Their recent victory over Australia was not just a morale booster but also a statement win that underlined their ability to compete against elite nations. Sitting second in Group B, Zimbabwe now find themselves in a strong position to push for Super 8 qualification.
The foundation of Zimbabwe’s success has been their well-structured batting approach. Instead of reckless aggression, they have paced their innings intelligently according to pitch conditions. Brian Bennett has been the standout performer at the top of the order. His 64 off 56 balls against Australia was a calculated knock that anchored the innings under pressure. Bennett’s overall T20 numbers reflect his reliability, with a healthy strike rate and consistency across formats. Tadiwanashe Marumani complements him well, providing brisk starts and building steady opening partnerships.
In the middle order, Sikandar Raza remains the heartbeat of the team. With vast T20I experience and over 100 international wickets, Raza offers balance as a batting all-rounder. Ryan Burl adds explosive power and finishing ability, while Dion Mayers brings stability in the middle overs. Brad Evans and Tony Munyonga provide additional depth, ensuring Zimbabwe bat deep.
The bowling unit has been exceptional. Blessing Muzarabani has been the standout, taking 7 wickets in just 2 matches. His height, bounce, and accuracy make him extremely difficult to face, especially on surfaces offering seam movement. Richard Ngarava’s left-arm angle adds variety, while Evans has quietly contributed crucial wickets. Spin options such as Wellington Masakadza and Raza can exploit slower conditions at Pallekele.
Zimbabwe’s biggest strength lies in their balanced attack and disciplined fielding. If their top order provides another solid start and the bowlers maintain pressure, they are well-equipped to dominate this contest.
Ireland Preview
Ireland come into this match with renewed confidence after their emphatic 96-run victory over Oman. That win kept their Super 8 hopes alive and highlighted the team’s potential when firing collectively. However, inconsistency across departments remains their biggest challenge heading into this crucial encounter.
The batting unit revolves around captain Lorcan Tucker, who produced one of the tournament’s finest innings — an unbeaten 94 off 51 balls. Tucker’s ability to accelerate against both pace and spin makes him Ireland’s most dangerous batter. His leadership has also been instrumental in stabilizing the middle order. George Dockrell has been another reliable contributor, scoring steady runs and providing left-arm spin as an all-round option. Gareth Delany adds finishing power and can shift momentum in the death overs.
However, Ireland’s top order continues to raise concerns. Harry Tector and Curtis Campher are talented players but have not consistently delivered in this tournament. Early wickets have often put pressure on the middle order, forcing rescue operations rather than building proactive innings. Tim Tector and Ross Adair must provide stronger starts to ease the burden on Tucker.
The bowling attack shows promise but lacks sustained penetration. Josh Little impressed with 3/16 against Oman and remains Ireland’s strike bowler. Barry McCarthy and Mark Adair offer seam support, particularly with the new ball. Matthew Humphreys’ spin could play a role on a slowing Pallekele surface.
Ireland’s key to success lies in early breakthroughs and disciplined death bowling. If they can disrupt Zimbabwe’s opening partnership and limit Raza’s impact, they stand a genuine chance. Fielding standards and tactical clarity will also be critical in such a closely contested matchup.
Team Squads
Zimbabwe Squad
Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza (c), Dion Mayers, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa.
Ireland Squad
Tim Tector, Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk/c), Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Joshua Little, Craig Young, Benjamin White, Benjamin Calitz, Sam Topping.
Probable Playing XI
Zimbabwe Probable XI
Brian Bennett
Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk)
Dion Mayers
Ryan Burl
Sikandar Raza (c)
Brad Evans
Tony Munyonga
Wellington Masakadza
Graeme Cremer
Blessing Muzarabani
Richard Ngarava
Ireland Probable XI
Tim Tector
Ross Adair
Harry Tector
Lorcan Tucker (c, wk)
Curtis Campher
Gareth Delany
George Dockrell
Mark Adair
Barry McCarthy
Matthew Humphreys
Joshua Little
Zimbabwe vs Ireland Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| WK | Lorcan Tucker | Ireland |
| Bat | Brian Bennett | Zimbabwe |
| Bat | Ryan Burl | Zimbabwe |
| Bat | Harry Tector | Ireland |
| AR | Sikandar Raza | Zimbabwe |
| AR | George Dockrell | Ireland |
| AR | Brad Evans | Zimbabwe |
| Bowl | Blessing Muzarabani | Zimbabwe |
| Bowl | Joshua Little | Ireland |
| Bowl | Richard Ngarava | Zimbabwe |
| Bowl | Barry McCarthy | Ireland |
This fantasy lineup balances Zimbabwe’s bowling dominance with Ireland’s middle-order strength. Lorcan Tucker is a must-pick after his match-winning 94*, offering both wicketkeeping points and explosive batting potential. Brian Bennett provides solidity at the top and can anchor the innings if Zimbabwe bat first. Ryan Burl adds middle-order power and occasional overs.
Sikandar Raza is the most valuable fantasy asset due to his dual contribution — reliable batting and wicket-taking off-spin. George Dockrell provides stability and spin-friendly points on a slowing Pallekele pitch. Brad Evans strengthens the all-round depth, particularly with the ball.
Blessing Muzarabani is the premium bowling choice, given his 7 wickets in two matches. Joshua Little’s left-arm pace offers early breakthrough potential. Ngarava’s variation and McCarthy’s seam movement round out the attack.
Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
- Captain: Sikandar Raza / Blessing Muzarabani
- Vice-Captain: Lorcan Tucker / Brian Bennett
Players to Avoid
- Tim Tector (inconsistent returns)
- Tony Munyonga (limited fantasy impact recently)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today Match – Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe start as slight favorites due to momentum, bowling form, and tactical clarity. Their balanced lineup and recent win over Australia highlight their ability to handle high-pressure situations. Muzarabani’s pace threat and Raza’s all-round capabilities give them control in both innings. Ireland rely heavily on Tucker and Dockrell; if those two are contained, their scoring rate could dip significantly.
Zimbabwe have demonstrated composure in reading conditions and adapting their tempo — a crucial advantage at Pallekele.
Why Zimbabwe?
- In-form pace attack led by Muzarabani
- Experienced all-round core (Raza, Burl)
- Strong opening partnerships
- Recent confidence-boosting win
Zimbabwe T20 History
| Matches Played | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 188 | 69 | 116 | 3 | 0 |
Zimbabwe have historically struggled but are showing marked improvement with a stronger pace attack and consistent all-round performances.
Ireland T20 History
| Matches Played | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 188 | 79 | 99 | 9 | 0 |
Ireland hold a slightly better overall T20 record than Zimbabwe, reflecting steady progress and competitiveness against Associate and Full Member sides.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Total Matches | Zimbabwe Won | Ireland Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 | 8 | 8 | 2 |
The rivalry is evenly balanced, with both teams winning eight matches each. This parity makes the upcoming clash highly competitive and unpredictable.
Pitch Report
The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium typically offers a balanced surface. Early in the innings, seamers can extract movement due to humidity and cloud cover. As the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow slightly, bringing spinners into play. Scores between 140–150 are competitive here. Chasing teams have enjoyed moderate success, particularly when dew becomes a factor later in the game. Expect bowlers who vary pace and hit hard lengths to be effective, while batters who rotate strike efficiently will thrive.
Weather Report – Pallekele
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Condition | Cloudy with morning showers possible |
| Temperature | 19°C – 24°C |
| Humidity | 70–80% |
| Rain Probability | Moderate (afternoon thunderstorm risk) |
| Wind | Light breeze |
| Dew Factor | Possible in evening |
Cloud cover is expected throughout the day, with a chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon. Humidity levels remain high, which could assist swing bowlers early on. If rain interruptions occur, the DLS method may come into play. Dew later in the game may slightly favor the chasing side.
Broadcast Details
The Zimbabwe vs Ireland 32nd T20 match will be broadcast live on JioHotstar (digital streaming platform) and the Star Sports Network across India. Viewers can watch the live telecast in multiple regional languages. International audiences can check their respective local sports broadcasters for coverage of this T20 World Cup 2026 clash.
Toss Prediction
Considering the weather forecast and historical trends at Pallekele, the captain winning the toss is likely to opt for bowling first. Three of the last five matches here have been won by chasing teams, and the possibility of dew later in the afternoon strengthens that decision. Ireland are predicted to win the toss, but bowling first would be the safer tactical choice for either side.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
For Zimbabwe, Brian Bennett stands out as the probable top batsman. His composed 64 against Australia showcased maturity under pressure, and he has been consistent at the top. Sikandar Raza remains another reliable run-getter in crunch situations.
From Ireland, Lorcan Tucker is the key batting threat. His unbeaten 94 in the previous match highlights his ability to accelerate and anchor innings simultaneously.
On the bowling front, Blessing Muzarabani is the most dangerous option. With 7 wickets in two matches, his bounce and accuracy make him a match-winner. For Ireland, Joshua Little is the leading wicket-taking threat. His left-arm pace and ability to strike early could disrupt Zimbabwe’s top order.
Zimbabwe vs Ireland Winning Chances
| Team | Winning % | Why They Can Win | Why They Might Lose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zimbabwe | 61% | In-form bowling attack, momentum from Australia win | Over-reliance on top order |
| Ireland | 39% | Strong middle order led by Tucker | Inconsistent top order |
Zimbabwe hold the edge due to superior bowling rhythm and balanced all-round options. Ireland’s chances hinge on Tucker and early breakthroughs.
Match Prediction
Zimbabwe enter this contest with stronger momentum and a more disciplined bowling unit. If Muzarabani continues his current form and Raza contributes with both bat and ball, Zimbabwe should control the game. Ireland need a big top-order performance to stay competitive. Based on recent performances and team balance, Zimbabwe are predicted to win this crucial Group B encounter.
Winner: Zimbabwe Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
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