ZIM vs IRE Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s 3rd ODI Between Zimbabwe And Ireland?

Paul Stirling and Sikandar Raza [Source: @ZimcricketTV, @cricketireland/X.com]

The Zimbabwe vs Ireland ODI series has turned out to be an absolute thriller as both teams have announced their form in the first two ODIs. While Zimbabwe bagged the first ODI, Ireland snatched the win in the second. 

Now, the stage is set for the series decider. The 3rd ODI will be played on February 18 at the Harare Sports Club and fans will be able to catch all the live action from 1:00 PM IST.

Ireland

Ireland will be full of confidence heading into the third ODI after a commanding victory in the second match, levelling the series 1-1. Paul Stirling’s blistering 89 and a solid partnership with Curtis Campher were pivotal in their chase of 246, showcasing their batting depth.

With the bowlers, led by Mark Adair and Curtis Campher, delivering clinical performances, the Irish will look to carry this momentum forward. Ireland's resilience in the face of setbacks, particularly Stirling's recovery will boost their spirits as they aim for a series win.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe will need to regroup quickly after a disappointing defeat in the second ODI, where they were restricted to just 245 despite a valiant fifty from Sikandar Raza. Their top-order struggles have been a concern, and they will need stronger partnerships early on to avoid early wickets.

The bowlers, including Trevor Gwandu, who made an impact in the previous match, will need to perform consistently. Zimbabwe’s middle-order fightback is something they can draw confidence from, and they will aim to bounce back in the third ODI to regain the series lead.

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ZIM vs IRE: Head-To-Head In ODIs

How will the Harare Sports Club pitch behave?

The Harare Sports Club pitch is expected to provide an exciting contest between bat and ball, with early moisture and lateral movement favouring seamers looking for early breakthroughs. As the day progresses the pitch is likely to slow down, giving spinners the opportunity to shine with changes of pace and flight, though sharp turns may not be a factor. 

Historically, the venue offers a balanced challenge reflecting its ability to test both batters and bowlers. With the last two matches showing moderate totals, captains may be tempted to bat first and content the opponent with a slow pitch.

Players to watch out for in ZIM vs IRE 3rd ODI

Key Players For Zimbabwe

Wessly Madhevere

Madhevere has shown solid form with the bat, most recently scoring a key 61 against Ireland in the ODI series. His ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships makes him a crucial player for Zimbabwe in the middle order. With his experience and versatility, he will be key to stabilizing the innings and scoring under pressure in the third ODI.

Sikandar Raza

Sikandar Raza has been a consistent performer for Zimbabwe, contributing with both bat and ball. His recent knock of 58 in the second ODI showcased his ability to stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed. As an all-rounder, Raza’s experience and ability to turn the game in both departments will be vital in the third ODI against Ireland.

Trevor Gwandu

Gwandu has delivered vital breakthroughs with the ball, as seen in his 2-50 in the second ODI. His consistency and knack for picking key wickets in crucial moments will be important in restricting Ireland's batting line-up. As a bowler capable of exploiting early conditions and applying pressure in the middle overs, Gwandu will be key to Zimbabwe’s success in the third ODI.

Key Players For Ireland

Paul Stirling

Paul Stirling has been in solid form, with a match-winning 89 against Zimbabwe in the second ODI, making him a key player in Ireland's top order. His aggressive approach and ability to anchor the innings are essential for setting a strong foundation. Stirling’s experience and consistency will be crucial for Ireland’s chances in the third ODI.

Curtis Campher

Curtis Campher has been a standout performer for Ireland, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. His 63 in the second ODI demonstrated his ability to control the middle overs and anchor the chase, while his match-winning 3-13 with the ball shows his potential to break partnerships. Campher’s all-round skills make him a vital asset in the third ODI.

Mark Adair

Adair has been in excellent bowling form, with standout figures of 4-54 in the second ODI, making him one of Ireland's most reliable bowlers. His ability to bowl in the death overs and pick up wickets at crucial moments gives Ireland an edge. Adair will be vital in controlling Zimbabwe’s batting and ensuring they don’t post a challenging total.

Today's Match Prediction: ZIM vs IRE 3rd ODI

Predicted Top Performers

Zimbabwe: Wessly Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Trevor Wesley Gwandu
Ireland: Paul Stirling, Curtis Campher, Mark Adair

ZIM vs IRE 3rd ODI: Predicted Score

Predicted first innings score: 280-290
Predicted second innings score: 270-280

Predicted Result: The team choosing to bat first will likely have the upper hand in this match.

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