The Zimbabwe vs Ireland prediction for the 3rd T20 match of the Ireland tour of Zimbabwe 2025 is set to be an exciting contest. The match will be played on Tuesday, 25th February 2025, at the Harare Sports Club, Harare. Both teams are evenly matched, and fans are eager to see who will come out on top in this decider. Let’s dive into the details and analyze the key aspects of this clash.
Table of content
- 1 Match Details
- 2 Team Previews
- 3 Zimbabwe Preview
- 4 Ireland Preview
- 5 Team Squads
- 6 Probable Playing XI
- 7 Fantasy Team XI – Dream11 Prediction for Today Zimbabwe vs Ireland 3rd T20
- 8 Favourite Team in Today’s Match
- 9 Zimbabwe T20 History
- 10 Ireland T20 History
- 11 Head-to-Head Stats
- 12 Pitch Report
- 13 Weather Report
- 14 ZIM vs IRE Toss Prediction:
- 15 Match Prediction
- 16 FAQ – ZIM vs IRE 3rd T20
- 17 Share this:
- 18 Like this:
- 19 Related
Match Details
Match | Zimbabwe vs Ireland, 3rd T20I, Ireland tour of Zimbabwe 2025 |
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Date | Tuesday, 25th February 2025 |
Time | 5:00 PM IST |
Venue | Harare Sports Club, Harare |
Broadcast | Fancode |
Team Previews
Zimbabwe Preview
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Zimbabwe’s cricketing resurgence continues to impress, and their recent T20I performances suggest a team growing in confidence and consistency. They secured a three-wicket victory over Ireland in the second T20I, successfully chasing a modest 138 in 19.2 overs. Despite an early collapse that saw them slump to 14-3 within the first four overs, Zimbabwe’s middle and lower order stepped up, showcasing their depth and resilience.
In this team preview, we analyze Zimbabwe’s strengths, key players, and areas of improvement as they gear up for the remainder of the series and beyond.
Batting Strengths: Depth and Firepower
Zimbabwe’s batting depth has been a key asset, allowing them to play an aggressive brand of cricket. While the top order has been relatively consistent, it is their ability to recover from early setbacks that makes them a dangerous side.
Key Batters:
- Ryan Burl – Burl’s ability to absorb pressure and accelerate when needed was evident in the second T20I, where he played a composed knock of 27 off 20 balls. He provides stability in the middle order while also being capable of finishing games.
- Tony Munyonga – Munyonga has emerged as one of Zimbabwe’s most reliable batters, as shown in his unbeaten 43 off 30 balls in the second T20I. His finishing ability will be crucial in tight chases.
- Brian Bennett & Wessly Madhevere – The young duo at the top of the order have provided solid starts in recent games. Their ability to take advantage of the powerplay will be essential in setting up big totals.
- Sikandar Raza – The backbone of Zimbabwe’s batting, Raza is a proven match-winner. His 48-run partnership with Burl in the second T20I helped stabilize the innings after an early collapse. Expect him to continue being the anchor of the team.
Challenges for Zimbabwe’s Batting Unit
- Inconsistency at the top – Zimbabwe have struggled with early wickets, as seen in their 14-3 collapse against Ireland. Finding stability at the top is crucial to building stronger platforms for the middle order.
- Dependence on Raza – While Raza is a key player, over-reliance on him could backfire. Others need to step up consistently.
Bowling: A Balanced Attack with Match-Winning Potential
Zimbabwe’s bowling attack has been effective, led by a mix of pace and spin. In the second T20I, they restricted Ireland to just 137-8, demonstrating good control and execution.
Key Bowlers:
- Trevor Gwandu – The standout performer in the last game, Gwandu picked up 3-24 in four overs. His ability to strike early and contain runs in the death overs makes him a vital asset.
- Richard Ngarava – A consistent performer, Ngarava dismissed Paul Stirling in the first over of the second T20I, setting the tone for Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. His experience will be crucial against stronger opposition.
- Blessing Muzarabani – One of Zimbabwe’s most experienced pacers, Muzarabani’s bounce and ability to extract movement from the surface make him a key player.
- Sikandar Raza (Spin Option) – Raza’s off-spin provides variety and control in the middle overs. He played a pivotal role in breaking partnerships in the second T20I.
Challenges for Zimbabwe’s Bowling Unit
- Death Bowling Needs Improvement – While Zimbabwe restricted Ireland well, finishing off innings strongly remains an area for improvement.
- Need for More Wicket-Takers – While Gwandu, Ngarava, and Raza were among the wickets, Zimbabwe need more bowlers stepping up consistently.
Fielding: A Key Strength
Zimbabwe have shown significant improvement in their fielding, with young players like Brian Bennett setting high standards. Their effort in the second T20I was commendable, as they saved crucial runs in the field. Maintaining this level of intensity will be crucial in tight games.
Ireland Preview
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Ireland will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing batting performance in the second T20I, where they managed only 137-8 despite a solid start. Their bowling unit, led by Craig Young, showed promise, but the team will need a collective effort to turn things around.
Batting: Finding Consistency
Ireland’s batting lineup has potential, but they need more consistent contributions from their key players.
Key Batters:
- Lorcan Tucker – Tucker’s 46 off 40 balls was the highlight of Ireland’s innings in the second T20I. His role at the top will be crucial in setting the foundation.
- Harry Tector – One of Ireland’s most talented batters, Tector played a good hand with 28 off 20 balls. He needs to convert his starts into bigger scores.
- Paul Stirling – The experienced opener had a rare failure in the second T20I. Given his reputation, he will be determined to make a strong comeback.
- Curtis Campher & George Dockrell – Both all-rounders have the ability to make valuable contributions with the bat. Their role in the middle order will be key.
Challenges for Ireland’s Batting Unit
- Fragile Middle Order – After Tucker and Tector, the rest of the batting lineup struggled in the second T20I. More contributions are needed from the middle order.
- Slow Start & Lack of Acceleration – Ireland need to strike a balance between building an innings and maintaining a strong run rate.
Bowling: Craig Young Leading the Attack
Ireland’s bowlers had a mixed outing in the second T20I. While Craig Young was outstanding, others failed to maintain pressure.
Key Bowlers:
- Craig Young – The best performer with the ball, Young picked up 4-24 in four overs. His early strikes put Zimbabwe on the back foot.
- Graham Hume – An experienced seamer, Hume provides control and can pick up crucial wickets.
- Josh Little – One of Ireland’s most promising fast bowlers, Little has the ability to generate extra pace and trouble batters.
- Benjamin White (Spin Option) – A key component of Ireland’s attack, White will be expected to play a bigger role in controlling the middle overs.
Challenges for Ireland’s Bowling Unit
- Better Usage of Young – Young was removed from the attack after just two overs, despite taking three wickets. Strategic use of bowlers is needed.
- Death Overs Execution – Ireland struggled to close out Zimbabwe’s innings. Improving their death bowling will be critical.
Fielding & Captaincy
Ireland’s fielding needs improvement, as they allowed Zimbabwe to build partnerships and chase the target comfortably. Skipper Paul Stirling will also need to make better tactical decisions, especially in managing his bowling resources.
Team Squads
Zimbabwe Squad | Ireland Squad |
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Brian Bennett | Paul Stirling (c) |
Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk) | Lorcan Tucker (wk) |
Wessly Madhevere | Harry Tector |
Sikandar Raza (c) | Curtis Campher |
Ryan Burl | Neil Rock |
Tony Munyonga | George Dockrell |
Tashinga Musekiwa | Gareth Delany |
Wellington Masakadza | Graham Hume |
Richard Ngarava | Craig Young |
Blessing Muzarabani | Joshua Little |
Trevor Gwandu | Benjamin White |
Nyasha Mayavo | Tim Tector |
Dion Myers | Matthew Humphreys |
Johnathan Campbell | Fionn Hand |
Tinotenda Maposa | |
Newman Nyamhuri |
Probable Playing XI
Zimbabwe | Ireland |
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Brian Bennett | Paul Stirling (c) |
Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk) | Lorcan Tucker (wk) |
Wessly Madhevere | Harry Tector |
Sikandar Raza (c) | Curtis Campher |
Ryan Burl | Neil Rock |
Tony Munyonga | George Dockrell |
Tashinga Musekiwa | Gareth Delany |
Wellington Masakadza | Graham Hume |
Richard Ngarava | Craig Young |
Blessing Muzarabani | Joshua Little |
Trevor Gwandu | Benjamin White |
Fantasy Team XI – Dream11 Prediction for Today Zimbabwe vs Ireland 3rd T20
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Player | Role | Team |
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Sikandar Raza | All-rounder | Zimbabwe |
Lorcan Tucker | Wicketkeeper | Ireland |
Paul Stirling | Batsman | Ireland |
Wessly Madhevere | All-rounder | Zimbabwe |
Ryan Burl | Batsman | Zimbabwe |
Curtis Campher | All-rounder | Ireland |
Craig Young | Bowler | Ireland |
Richard Ngarava | Bowler | Zimbabwe |
Blessing Muzarabani | Bowler | Zimbabwe |
Joshua Little | Bowler | Ireland |
Tony Munyonga | Batsman | Zimbabwe |
Analysis:
- Sikandar Raza and Lorcan Tucker are must-haves for their all-round and wicketkeeping abilities.
- Paul Stirling and Wessly Madhevere provide balance with their explosive batting.
- Craig Young and Richard Ngarava are key bowlers for their respective teams.
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Team
- Tadiwanashe Marumani – Inconsistent form and may not deliver in high-pressure games.
- Neil Rock – Limited impact in recent matches and may not contribute significantly.
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Zimbabwe are the favourites to win this match. With home advantage and a balanced squad, they have a 58% chance of winning. Their recent form and depth in both batting and bowling make them the stronger side.
Zimbabwe T20 History
Zimbabwe have played 163 T20Is, winning 58 and losing 103. Their performance has been inconsistent, but they have shown improvement in recent years, especially at home.
Ireland T20 History
Ireland have played 173 T20Is, winning 73 and losing 91. They are a competitive side with experienced players like Paul Stirling and Kevin O’Brien (retired), but consistency has been an issue.
Head-to-Head Stats
Matches Played | Zimbabwe Won | Ireland Won | No Result |
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17 | 8 | 8 | 1 |
The head-to-head record is evenly balanced, with both teams winning 8 matches each. This makes the contest even more exciting.
Pitch Report
The pitch at Harare Sports Club is generally balanced, offering assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. Spinners may come into play as the match progresses, but the surface is expected to favor the batsmen initially.
Weather Report
The weather in Harare is expected to be clear, with no chances of rain. Temperatures will hover around 22-28°C, providing ideal conditions for a thrilling T20 match.
ZIM vs IRE Toss Prediction:
Toss Winner: Zimbabwe
Match Prediction
Zimbabwe are likely to win this match, given their home advantage and recent form. However, Ireland cannot be underestimated, and they will put up a tough fight.
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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.
FAQ – ZIM vs IRE 3rd T20
When is the ZIM vs IRE 3rd T20 match?
The match is on Tuesday, 25th February 2025, at 5:00 PM IST.
Where will the match be played?
The match will be played at Harare Sports Club, Harare.
Who are the key players for Zimbabwe?
Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, and Blessing Muzarabani are key players.
Who are the key players for Ireland?
Paul Stirling, Lorcan Tucker, and Craig Young are key players.
What is the head-to-head record between Zimbabwe and Ireland?
Both teams have won 8 matches each out of 17 played.
What is the pitch report for Harare Sports Club?
The pitch is balanced, favoring both batsmen and bowlers, with spinners coming into play later.
Who is the favourite to win the match?
Zimbabwe are the favourites with a 58% chance of winning.
Where can I watch the match live?
The match will be broadcast live on Fancode.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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