Zimbabwe took control in the one-off test match against Ireland on day three thanks to a dominant bowling performance led by fast bowler Richard Ngarava. After Ireland had reduced Zimbabwe to 197 all out in the first innings, taking a 158-run lead, Ngarava ripped through the Irish top order, claiming four wickets inside eight overs.
Ireland started their chase brightly but were soon in trouble at 33-5, with Ngarava wreaking havoc. His victims included Peter Moor, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, and Paul Stirling, all dismissed in quick succession. He was ably supported by Blessing Muzarabani who removed the dangerous Andy Balbirnie.
Earlier in the day, Zimbabwe’s batting had struggled against the Irish bowlers. Andy McBrine had taken four wickets as Zimbabwe lost their last seven wickets for just 41 runs. Dion Myers top-scored with 57 but his dismissal, lbw to Mark Adair, brought an end to Zimbabwe’s hopes of a large first-innings total.
The rain arrived with Ireland still needing 125 runs to win and with five wickets remaining. While Ireland will be disappointed with their batting collapse, they will be buoyed by the fact that they managed to restrict Zimbabwe to a relatively low total in the first innings. The final day of the test promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Zimbabwe on the cusp of victory.
