Ireland Takes Control in One-Off Test Against Zimbabwe

BELFAST, Northern Ireland (AP) — Ireland established a 40-run lead over Zimbabwe in their one-off test match at Stormont Cricket Ground, finishing their first innings at 250. The highlight of the innings was a solid 79 from Peter Moor, who faced his birth country after switching allegiance to Ireland in 2023. The Irish innings was further supported by 59 extras and a crucial last-wicket partnership of 47 runs between Andy McBrine and Matthew Humphreys. Zimbabwe, who were dismissed for 210 on the first day, began their second innings with a score of 12 without loss. Moor, who previously played for Zimbabwe, showcased his skills by forming a 71-run opening partnership with Ireland's captain Andy Balbirnie, who contributed 19 runs before being dismissed. Ireland went into lunch at 115-2, with Moor already having reached his half-century. However, the Irish batting lineup faltered after Moor's dismissal, as they quickly lost four wickets, slipping from 165-3 to 189-7. Sean Williams played a pivotal role for Zimbabwe, taking the key wicket of Paul Stirling for 22. Despite the collapse, McBrine's resilience and Humphreys' late hitting helped Ireland reach a respectable total, with McBrine scoring 28 before the innings concluded. Zimbabwe's bowling attack was led by Tanaka Chivanga, who took 3-39, while Blessing Muzarabani and Sean Williams also made significant contributions with the ball, each claiming crucial wickets to keep Zimbabwe in contention.