Harare Sports Club Pitch Report For ZIM vs IRE 2nd ODI

Debashis Sarangi

Harare Sports Club [Source: @DurhamCricket/X]Harare Sports Club [Source: @DurhamCricket/X]

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On Sunday, Zimbabwe will face Ireland in the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series on home soil. The much-awaited face-off will take place at Harare Sports Club in Harare, Zimbabwe. 

Led by Craig Ervine, Zimbabwe had a fabulous start to the series, securing an emphatic 49-run win in the first ODI. After Brian Bennett's sparkling century powered them to 299, the hosts restricted the Irish to 250, taking a crucial 1-0 lead in the series. So, this match holds significant importance for the tourists as another loss will result in their series defeat. 

As both teams gear up for a fascinating contest, let's see how the surface at Harare Sports Club will behave throughout the match. 

Harare Sports Club Stats And Records In ODIs

Criterion
Data
Matches played201
Matches won batting 1st91
Matches won bowling 1st104
Average 1st innings score229
Average 2nd innings score195


Harare Sports Club Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?

The surface at Harare Sports Club might offer a hint of assistance to the fast bowlers early on with the new ball. There might be some moisture on the pitch, bringing the seamers into play in the first few overs in the first innings. 

However, as the game progresses, the pitch might flatten and become more batting-friendly.  The track in Harare generally offers some turn to the spinners across both innings. There won't likely be significant help for the pacers in the second innings; also considering the chasing sides have won more number of matches at this venue, the toss-winner will likely bowl first. 

Players To Watch Out For At Harare Sports Club

Brian Bennett

  • Zimbabwe opener Brian Bennett showcased remarkable form in the first match, slamming the fifth-highest total for his country in ODIs. He dominated the Irish bowlers and is expected to put up a similar performance in this game. 

Richard Ngarava

  • Zimbabwe's left-arm pacer Richard Ngarava has been one of the most successful bowlers at this venue, scalping 32 wickets in 23 ODIs. He bagged three crucial wickets in the first ODI and could be the pick of the bowlers for the hosts in this match. 

Curtis Campher

  • Ireland's premier all-rounder Curtis Campher has been one of the most consistent performers for his team in ODIs. Campher looked sublime for his 44-run knock in the first ODI and might play a key role for the visitors in this encounter. 

P.S: Apart from these players, the eyes will be on Sikandar Raza, Blessing Muzarabani, Craig Ervine, Mark Adair and George Dockrell.