Ireland clinched a memorable T20I series win against Zimbabwe on Sunday, 10 December. Ireland came back from 0-1 down in the series to pull off a 2-1 win in Harare under the captaincy of Paul Stirling. The visiting side, clinched the decider on Sunday by 6 wickets, thanks to the century stand between Harry Tector and George Dockrell.

ZIM vs IRE, 3rd T20I: Highlights

Ireland put Zimbabwe under the pump after winning the toss and bowling first in the third and final match of the series. Zimbabwe were already stretched thin without the services of captain Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams and Craig Ervine and losing four wickets in the first 10 overs did not help their cause. Stand-in captain Ryan Burl top scored for the side with 36 off 28 balls and helped Zimbabwe reach a decent 140/6 in 20 overs.

At the break, Ireland were the favourites to win the game but Zimbabwe hit back with four quick wickets in the second innings of the match. Ireland were left reeling after the dismissal of Andrew Balbirnie (13), Paul Stirling (6), Lorcan Tucker (8) and Curtis Campher (5). After losing four wickets in the first 7 overs, Harry Tector and George Dockrell held the innings.

Things were not easy with Zimbabwe spinners slowing the play down. George Dockrell was able to find his rhythm early and really helped out Harry Tector, who took time to get started. Tector remained unbeaten at 54 off 45 balls, while Dockrell hit 49 off 32. The duo added 104* off 70 balls to help Ireland win by 6 wickets.

“Always nice when you can chip in on both sides (bat and ball). Pitch has rewarded spinners when they hold good lengths. We just wanted to bat 10-12 overs initially, give us a chance at the death. Really pleased with that partnership,” said George Dockrell at the post match presentation.

Ireland had started off their series with a final ball thriller against Zimbabwe where they ended up in the wrong side of things. The team won the next two matches to clinch a series victory.

“We’ve got better as the week progressed. After the way we lost the first match, it’s easy to fall away quickly. Proud to come back. Wouldn’t say it’s a concern (top-order). It’s something we’ll think about. Good sign that we’re winning games despite top 3 not performing,” said Paul Stirling after their win on Sunday.