The Test match between Zimbabwe and Ireland at Bulawayo is set for a thrilling conclusion as Zimbabwe requires just 109 runs to win with three wickets in hand. This match marks Ireland's first Test since their victory over Zimbabwe by four wickets in Belfast last July. The spotlight is on Wesley Madhevere, who is currently unbeaten on 61 and is pivotal to the hosts' hopes of clinching the match.
On the fourth day of play, rain limited the action to just 53 overs, posing a challenge for both teams. Zimbabwe started the day precariously placed at 38-3. However, they managed to push their total to 183-7 by the end of the day. Madhevere, having faced 147 balls, came to the crease after Barry McCarthy dismissed Trevor Gwandu. This dismissal came early, with Zimbabwe adding only two runs to their overnight total before Gwandu's departure.
A significant turning point was the 65-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Madhevere and Brian Bennett. This stand provided much-needed stability for Zimbabwe. Bennett contributed a solid 45 runs before falling victim to Ireland spinner Matthew Humphreys. Humphreys continued to challenge the Zimbabwean batsmen, securing his second wicket soon after Bennett's dismissal.
Zimbabwe's innings of 183-7 was achieved over 68 overs, highlighting a hard-fought battle against Ireland's bowling attack. In contrast, Ireland posted a first innings total of 260, thanks in part to McBrine's unbeaten knock of 90. Zimbabwe had earlier registered a total of 267 in their first innings, with Welch top-scoring at 90.
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