Rain Halts Play as Ireland's Top Order Falls to Zimbabwe’s Bowlers in Day 3 of One-off the Test

IRELAND need 125 runs to win / GettyImages

On the third day of the one-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe, persistent rain and a deteriorating pitch led to an early abandonment of play. 

Zimbabwe, resuming their innings at 96/3, struggled but saw crucial contributions from Dion Myers, who made a solid 57 before being dismissed. Sean Williams added 40, and tail-enders Richard Ngarava, Chivanga, and Chatara extended the lead to 158.

Zimbabwe's bowlers shone as Richard Ngarava dismantled Ireland’s top order, reducing them to 21/5. Ngarava took out Peter Moor, Curtis Campher, Paul Stirling, and Harry Tector. Despite a brief counterattack from Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine, who raised the score to 33/5, Zimbabwe’s bowlers continued to dominate. Blessing Muzarabani’s critical dismissal of skipper Andy Balbirnie further dented Ireland's chase.

The day ended with rain disrupting play. Umpires initially considered light conditions before abandoning play due to persistent rain. Ireland now faces a challenging target, needing 125 more runs with just five wickets remaining as the match progresses to its fourth day.