Zimbabwe beat Ireland, lead ODI series in first One-dayer

BELFAST: Craig Ervine (64), and Sikandar Raza (59 not out) struck half-centuries as Zimbabwe came up with a superb all-round performance to beat Ireland by 38 runs in the first One-dayer.

Boosted by fine innings by Ervine and Raza, Zimbabwe posted a competitive total of 266 for seven in their 50 overs and then with Blessings Muzarabani claiming 4/29, successfully defended the total. Despite William Porterfield (75) and Harry Tector's (50) resistance, Ireland were bundled out for 228 runs in the 49th over.

Zimbabwe not only took lead in the three-match ODI series but also snatched a vital ten points in their Cricket World Cup Super League campaign.

Brief scores: Zimbabwe 266/7 in 50 overs (Brendon Taylor 49, Craig Evans 64, Sean Williams 33, Sikandar Raza 59*; Simi Singh 1-22, McBrine 1-26) beat Ireland 228 all out in 48.4 overs (William Potterfield 75, Paul Stirling 32, Harry Tector 50; Blessing Muzarabani 4/29, Wellington Masakadza 2/40, Sean Williams 2/42). IANS

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