The Zimbabweans will now need to produce something out of the ordinary to beat the Netherlands in their next game Wednesday if they are hoping to stay in the run for a place at the finals.
But their chances are hanging by a threat as there are slim chances that Ireland will lose out to the other team in the group, minnows, the United Arab Emirates. Only the group winners qualify for the finals.
Captain Brendon Taylor hit a superb 59 off 46 balls and further contributions from Hamilton Masakadza who hit 21, Elton Chigumbura totaled 22 not out, Sean Williams came out with 16 to set up a respectable total of 163 for five.
In response, Paul Stirling hit 60 off 34 balls and along with captain William Porterfield reached 80. With that Ireland looked like they would overhaul the target comfortably. But after losing two wickets in the final over, Ireland were in trouble. But Alex Cusack ran on a bye on the last ball and Taylor failed to hit the stump as the Irish claimed a three wicket win.
That puts Zimbabwe, pre-tournament favourites, in danger of failing to qualify for the finals which will group the best cricket nations form around the globe.
Post published in: Cricket