Bennett’s 169 guides Zimbabwe to series lead over Ireland

Brian Bennett struck a career-best 169 as Zimbabwe secured a 49-run victory over Ireland in Harare on 9 February, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

The 21-year-old opener played a crucial role alongside captain Craig Ervine, whose 66 helped Zimbabwe post a competitive 299 for five in their 50 overs. Bennett, opening for the first time in ODIs, capitalised on his opportunity, facing 163 deliveries in a 216-minute stay at the crease, which included 20 fours and three sixes.

Ireland's chase showed promise with a 73-run stand between George Dockrell (32) and Andy McBrine (34), but their dismissals in quick succession saw the visitors bowled out for 250 in 46 overs. Blessing Muzarabani was Zimbabwe's standout bowler, finishing with figures of 4 for 51.

'Lucky things went my way'

Bennett, whose previous highest ODI score was 37, admitted fortune played a role in his innings.

"I was lucky to get a chance to open and lucky that things went in my favour," he said. "I enjoy facing the new ball in white-ball cricket. It was a tricky start, but the pitch was good—not much swing or assistance for the bowlers."

His captain, Ervine, praised the young batter's approach.

"Benny batted extremely well, with perfect tempo. Openers performing well is crucial because it allows others to play with freedom," he said. "The surface played reasonably well throughout, though it was a little slow early on."

Ireland fall short

Ireland's captain Paul Stirling acknowledged his team's mistakes and the brilliance of Bennett's knock.

"Congratulations to Brian for an outstanding innings. We gave him a chance or two, and he punished us. We were rusty when we shouldn't have been," Stirling said.

Ireland's middle order faltered after a promising start, with Lorcan Tucker (31), Harry Tector (39), and Mark Adair (2) falling in quick succession. Dockrell and McBrine revived hopes before Muzarabani struck, leaving Ireland at 247 for eight. Matthew Humphreys (0) and Josh Little (1) departed soon after, sealing Zimbabwe's win.

"The wicket was as good as it gets at Harare Sports Club," Stirling added. "The squeeze was put on us between overs 30 and 40 in both innings. We bat deep and want to give ourselves a chance, but we gave up a couple. Hopefully, we come through next time."

Bennett was eventually dismissed in the final over, mistiming a big shot off Adair and falling to Andy Balbirnie at deep extra cover. Earlier, he shared a crucial 136-run second-wicket partnership with Ervine, whose 66 included four sixes and three fours.

Zimbabwe have now won seven of their 12 ODIs against Ireland in Harare. The teams meet again on 11 and 13 February before a three-match T20I series.