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Ireland vs Zimbabwe, ZIM in IRE, One-off Test Match, 2024 Full score card

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One-off Test, Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont, Belfast, 25 Jul, 2024

Zimbabwe

ZIM

210/10

(71.3) overs

197/10

(71.0) overs

Ireland

IRE

250/10

(58.3) overs

158/6

(36.1) overs

Ireland beat Zimbabwe by 4 wickets

Player Of The Match

Andy McBrine,
Ireland
Ireland
Summary
Scorecard
Commentary
News
Ireland
Zimbabwe
Ireland
Zimbabwe

Ireland • 158/6 (36.1 overs)

L Tucker 56 (64)

A McBrine 55 (82)

R Ngarava 4/53 (11)

B Muzarabani 2/52 (13)

Zimbabwe • 197/10 (71.0 overs)

D Myers 57 (142)

S Williams 40 (65)

A McBrine 4/38 (23)

M Adair 2/42 (15)

Ireland • 250/10 (58.3 overs)

P Moor 79 (105)

A McBrine 28 (45)

B Muzarabani 3/53 (17)

T Chivanga 3/39 (10)

Zimbabwe • 210/10 (71.3 overs)

P Masvaure 74 (152)

J Gumbie 49 (99)

B McCarthy 3/42 (15.3)

A McBrine 3/37 (13)

Commentary

Right then, Andy Balbirnie now walks up to the podium and is handed the trophy for winning the One-off Test match and the Irish players on him in celebration. Also, that is it from this historic Test match and it is Ireland who have reigned victorious at home against a determined Zimbabwe side. We hope you enjoyed are coverage but ticketing action doesn't stop here as the Final of the Women's Asia Cup between hosts Sri Lanka and India is nearing a fascinating conclusion. You can switch tabs and read our coverage of that game. Until next time then, take care and goodbye!

The skipper of Ireland, Andy Balbirnie is up for a chat. Balbirnie says that they had a chat last night with their two best batters about how to execute the plan. He continues that the morning pitch today was really flat, and very good to bat on. He further says that the local boy Andy McBrine helped them to win this match. He also says that the win would not help them in any qualification but he is really feeling proud of how his boys have reacted to win the match. He ends up saying they have worked hard for this and got the result at the end of the day.

Craig Ervine, the captain of Zimbabwe says that certainly these games that move pretty fast are exciting to watch and the conditions were such that there was always something in it for the bowlers as well as the batters. Adds that they made the same mistake in both innings with the bat as the lower order let them down and there were a couple of debutants who will learn from this experience. Mentions that the pacers were excellent and utilized the conditions well and would have liked to bowl a few more overs on Day 3 but it is what it is and goes on to applaud Tanaka Chivanga for coming back out after the concussion. On Victor Nyauchi, he says that Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani had bowled well and wanted to give those to another burst but unfortunately, it didn't work out. On their brewing rivalry with Ireland, he says every time they play, it is a right affair and is looking forward to more such encounters in the future.

Andy McBrine is the PLAYER OF THE MATCH for his match-winning display with both bat and ball. McBrine starts by saying that he feels fantastic to win the match. He continues that he and Lorcan Tucker had a good partnership which made the situation positive. He continues that on the previous day, they were thankful that the rain came on. He further adds that he is working on his bowling and is happy to gather wickets and says that he is more than satisfied with his pacers. Ends by saying that he is happy that his family is here to witness this exceptional match.

The Presentation ceremony...

Day 4 was the deciding day and overhead conditions changed completely which allowed Ireland back in the game but credit must go to the pair of Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine who came out with a positive intent and put the bad balls away. Both of them went on to score half centuries but it was the willy southpaw, McBrine who stayed on till the end and along with Mark Adair got his side over the line. McBrine had a game to remember as he picked up 7 wickets across the two innings and scored a match-winning fifty in the fourth innings. Adair, who was the hero of Ireland's first Test victory a few months ago, fitted hit the winning runs even after suffering a dislocated finger on Day 3.

Day 3 is known as the moving day in Test cricket and boy, we saw the game move at a rapid pace. Zimbabwe faltered early in their second innings with both openers being dismissed for a low score. Dion Myers and Sean Williams led the fight back for the visitors as the hosts kept on spilling catch after catch. Once the partnership was broken, the Irish bowlers broke through the lower order and bundled out Zimbabwe for 197 runs. Needing 158 for the win, Ireland walked out to bat under gloomy conditions and Richard Ngarava bowled a stellar spell and the visitors ended the day in pole position as Ireland were left reeling at 33/5.

Day 2 was a similar story as Ireland batted decently in the first session but lost their way after Lunch and it required a substantial last-wicket stand between Andy McBrine and Matthew Humphreys to bail them out. Zimbabwe were brilliant in terms of picking up wickets but as many as 59 extras meant that they conceded a first-innings lead of 40 runs and had it all to do with the bat.

The game can be termed as a slow-boiler to an extent as in the first session on Day 1, not much happened. However, post-Lunch, the game opened up and we saw wickets fall left, right and center. Day 1 was cut short but a total of 71.3 overs were bowled which was enough for Zimbabwe to be bowled out for 210 runs. Prince Masvaure starred with the bat as Barry McCarthy and Andy McBrine picked up three wickets each for Ireland.

IRELAND HAVE THEIR SECOND TEST WIN! Stormont in Belfast - the newest Test cricket venue has just witnessed an instant classic between Ireland and Zimbabwe. Hosts Ireland have gone on to win back-to-back Test matches for the first time ever, just a few months after notching up their maiden Test win. Zimbabwe played their part though and could have won the game but it wasn't meant to be. A joyous moment for Ireland as it is their first home Test victory as well and the applause from the crowd don't seem to stop.

36.14

FOUR! Done and dusted! The crowd erupts as history has been made in Belfast, two back-to-back Test wins for the Ireland! Sean Williams bowls it fuller on and around off. Mark Adair strides out and uses his bottom hand to loft it over the mid on region and no one at the long on fence to stop that. Mark Adair finishes off in style and it's a huge day for the Irish cricket team. Ireland beats Zimbabwe by four wickets in their first meeting in a Test match.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 36 overs : 154/6

A McBrine55 (82)

M Adair20 (37)

R Ngarava11-1-53-4

35.60

Huge appeal once again but nothing from the Umpire! Richard Ngarava bowls much fuller on middle and leg angling in. Andy Balbirnie tries to flick it but misses on the inner edge. The ball thumps the pad but it seems it would past the leg side.

35.50

Back of a length on middle. Andy McBrine shuffles a bit to pull it towards square leg but misses and thumps his stomach. The ball dropped down and got stuck in his pad. He walks off and hands the delivery to the bowler.

35.41

Singles are coming comfortably now! Fuller delivery just outside off, angling it away from the batter. Mark Adair hangs back and dabs it towards the backward point region for a single.

35.31

Excellent running and every run is now being applauded by the crowd, just 5 more required! Hard length on middle and angling in, Mark Adair pushes the ball down in front of mid on and scampers across for one.

35.21

On a good length and shaping it back into the pads, Mark Adair stabs the ball down wide of the keeper down the leg side and runs a single.

35.10

Top delivery! On a hard length on off, this one shoots off the deck and angles across sharply as Mark Adair plays inside the line of the ball.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 35 overs : 151/6

A McBrine54 (79)

M Adair18 (34)

S Williams5-0-17-0

34.60

Quicker now, short and on leg. Andy McBrine nudges it towards square leg for no runs.

34.51

Drangs his lengh back aorund off. Mark Adair cuts it towards deep cover region and gets another important single.

34.40

On a length and on leg. Mark Adair clips it towards the mad at mid-wicket.

34.30

Short and aorund off. Mark Adair eases it towards the cover region.

34.21

Short delivery on middle and leg. Andy McBrine flicks it towards square leg for a single. 8 runs needed now!

34.12

In air.. but safe! It looks like Andy McBrine wants to finish it off early! Flat and fuller on off and middle. Andy McBrine comes dancing down the track to loft it, but fails to gain the desired elevation. The ball drops safe at long on the region where Tendai Chatara has a chase but fails to get the skier. Two runs taken in between !

With just 11 runs more required for Ireland, the umpires have officially extended play!

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 34 overs : 147/6

M Adair17 (31)

A McBrine51 (76)

R Ngarava10-1-50-4

33.60

On a length on middle. Mark Adair flicks it towards mid-wicket.

33.50

Back of a length just outside off. Mark Adair hops and blocks it down the pitch.

33.44

FOUR! The timing of that flick was just exquisite! Runs are coming thick and fast from the Irish willows! Richard Ngarava bowls it fuller on middle and shapes it towards the middle stump. Mark Adair detects the swing and glances it from the crease towards the deep mid-wicket fence for four more runs added into his account.

There seems to be a slight delay as Richard Ngarava seems to have swallowed an insect and is just checking out his throat. Also, there seems to be an issue with the foot marks but we are now good to continue.

33.31

Short and wide outside off. Andy McBrine eases it towards deep point and gets another single.

33.21

Fuller on the pads. Mark Adair flicks it towards fine leg for a single.

Commentary

We are back for the all-important run chase! We still have a big chunk of Day 3 left and Ireland need 158 runs to make history and win their second Test match ever. The umpires are out in the middle and so are the players of Zimbabwe. It will be the duo of skipper Andy Balbirnie and Peter Moor to open the innings for Ireland. Blessing Muzarabani has been handed the new ball as Zimbabwe look for early wickets. Let's play...

... FOURTH INNINGS ...

With only 158 runs required to secure victory, Ireland will be optimistic about their chances. However, they will be fully aware that Zimbabwe will put up a fierce challenge and make things tough. An exhilarating final innings is on the horizon and is expected to start in just a few minutes. Stay tuned!

Ireland will take great satisfaction in how things unfolded for them. The bowlers consistently maintained tight lines throughout the innings, though they faced the challenge of six dropped catches. While not all of these errors had severe consequences, the entire bowling unit deserves commendation for sticking to their strategies despite limited support from the pitch. Andy McBrine was particularly impressive, taking four crucial wickets and receiving strong backing from the rest of the attack.

From 134-4 to 197 all out, Zimbabwe once again lost wickets in clusters, squandering their advantage without ever putting significant pressure on the opponents. Ultimately, they were bundled out for an even lower score than their first innings, a setback that never bodes well for any side.

After both Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure successfully navigated the last four overs of Day 2, things looked promising for the visitors. The openers managed a decent start, weathering the initial Irish attack with utmost caution during the first hour. Unfortunately, both fell in successive overs, putting their side on the back foot. Sean Williams and Dion Myers provided solid support in the middle order but couldn't capitalize on their strong starts and faltered.

That wraps up the Zimbabwean innings at 197 runs and they give Ireland a target of 158 runs to chase down heading into the final inning!

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 71 overs : 197/10

T Chivanga6 (35)

T Chatara4 (6)

A McBrine23-6-38-4

70.6W

OUT! TAKEN! It looks like Tanaka lost his patience over there, which resulted in a wicket for the Irish. Andy McBrine bowls it a bit short and on and around off. Tanaka Chivanga comes down the track to heave it across the line over the mid-wicket region but gets a thick outer edge. The ball goes high up in the sky at the cover region and it's Mark Adair who magnetized himself towards the line of the skier, gets low and takes the comfortable catch. Adair did dislocate his finger on the left hand on an earlier dropped catch but has popped it back in and that is staggering. Zimbabwe are bundled out for 197 runs.

70.50

Tossed up fuller on off. Tanaka Chivanga prods forward to flick but gets the inner part of his bat. The ball rolls towards his leg side.

70.40

Full and on the stumps. Tanaka Chivanga gets forward to blocks it down.

70.30

Length delivery once again outside off. Tanaka Chivanga leaves this one happily as well.

70.20

Drags his length back outside off, springing it away. Tanaka Chivanga prods to cover the stump and leaves it alone.

70.10

Lenght delivery outside off. Tanaka Chivanga defends it forward.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 70 overs : 197/9

T Chatara4 (6)

T Chivanga6 (29)

B McCarthy16-2-33-1

69.60

Fuller on stump. Tendai Chatara defends it back to the bowler.

69.51

Short delivery once again on middle and leg. Tanaka Chivanga hooks this one. The ball loops towards deep fine leg for a single.

69.40

Fuller now outside off, swinging away from the batter. Tanaka Chivanga walks off his stance and gives it a big swing but it was no way near the delivery.

69.30

And another one! That bounce actually hit the shoulder of the batter. Barry bowls another bouncer on leg, to the body lane of the batter. Tanaka Chivanga cramped for no room and got a hit on his shoulder. But he looks good to continue!

69.20

Short of a length, around off. Tanaka Chivanga tries to perform a backfoot defence but misses the connection on the outer edge.

69.10

Oh my... that bounce was something! Barry McCarthy welcomes Tanaka Chivanga with a firey bounce on middle and leg. Tanaka Chivanga arches back but fails to balance himself and falls to the ground.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 69 overs : 196/9

T Chatara4 (5)

T Chivanga5 (24)

A McBrine22-5-38-3

68.60

A loud appeal for LBW, but turned down! Tossed up around off and gets the ball to turn back in, Tendai Chatara plants his front leg across and looks to keep it out but misses it onto his pads.

68.51

Drifts this into the pads does McBrine, Tanaka Chivanga whips it to long on for a single.

68.40

Tossed up, around off, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it out.

68.30

Straight into the stumps, on a fuller length, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it on the front foot.

68.20

Fuller and outside off, Tanaka Chivanga opts not to play at it.

Well then, Tanaka Chivanga is back out in the middle. Brave from Chivanga and it is confirmed that he has passed the concussion tests and will join Tendai Chatara for the final wicket.

68.1W

OUT! CAUGHT! Andy McBrine gets the breakthrough! He bowls it short and just outside off. Richard Ngarava rocks back to cut it hard but gets nicked on the outer part of his willow. The ball zips to the keeper. Lorcan Tucker was a bit lucky as the ball thumped the upper part of his gloves and bounced high up in the sky and Tucker was able to collect it safely. But he takes the skier. Richard Ngarava has to depart now!

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 68 overs : 195/8

T Chatara4 (4)

R Ngarava11 (21)

B McCarthy15-2-32-1

67.60

Fullish and sliding down the leg. Tendai Chatara prods and tries to flick it but misses and thumps his pad. It would past down the leg.

Update - Zimbabwe now have the option to use a concussion substitute if they choose to.

67.50

Play and a miss! Back of a length on off and shaping is away. Tendai Chatara camps back to blocks it down but misses on the outer edge.

67.44

FOUR! EXCELLENT SHOT! Fuller delivery outside off. Tendai Chatara hangs back and opens his bat's surface towards to guide the delivery towards the fence of the backward point for a boundary.

Commentary

We are back for Zimbabwe's second innings! The sky has cleared up and there's plenty of natural light as the umpires and the Irish players make their way out to the middle. Mark Adair has taken the new ball and is raring to go as the opening pair for Zimbabwe - Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure stride out to the middle. Let's go...

... THIRD INNINGS ...

Zimbabwe's second innings is about to start in a few minutes' time and it should be an exciting battle between the Irish pacers and the Zimbabwean opening pair as both sides look to end Day 2 on a high. Don't go anywhere as live action is moments away.

When play resumed after a pretty long rain break, Ireland were 9 down and still trailing by 4 runs but in the 5.3 overs of play that followed, Matthew Humphreys simply took the game by the scruff of the neck and put on a show. Ireland made 44 runs in those said overs and have ended up having a crucial 40-run lead. Zimbabwe will be very disappointed with their laid-back approach to the resumption of play and will now have to depend immensely on their openers to remain unscathed going into Day 3.

Zimbabwe have finally managed to bundle out Ireland but not before the final pair added on 47 runs and stretched Irealdn's lead to 40 runs overall! Zimbabwe will have to come out and bat for about 15 odd minutes but there are a few specks of rain falling down on the ground, so, the visitors might just escape batting under difficult conditions.

58.3W

OUT! LBW! That was some delivery from Tendai Chatara! This quickfire of a partnership for the final wicket ahs propelled Ireland to a solid total! Chatara bowls this one on a good length just outside off and jaggs back the delivery towards the off stump of the left-hander. Andy McBrine fails to understand the shape of the ball. He tries to cut it but goes all wrong and the ball thumps the back pad of the batter. Appeal goes all around and the Umpire raises his finger. Andy McBrine was apologetic to his partner but what a partnership these two batters have put up.

58.21

Fuller on off. Matthew Humphreys gets forward and pushes it towards cover to get a single.

58.12

Confidence is just flowing from the willow of Matthew Humphreys! Back of a length on off and middle. Matthew Humphreys pulls it hard to the gap of mid-wicket and square leg but the ball doesn't have much legs to roll towards the boundary fence. They take a double.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 58 overs : 247/9

M Humphreys24 (29)

A McBrine28 (44)

T Chivanga10-2-39-3

57.61

Tanaka Chivanga tries for a yorker but misses the line and bowls a low full toss. Matthew Humphreys nudges it towards square leg with a bit of footwork and gets a single.

57.50

Short delivery on middle and leg. Matthew Humphreys tries to pull but yet again it's a play and a miss.

57.40

Swing and a miss! Hard-length delivery outside off. Matthew Humphreys rocks back to cut it late but gets beaten on the outer edge.

57.31

Good-length delivery outside off. Andy McBrine prods and pushes it towards deep backward point for a single.

57.24

FOUR! Runs are coming thick and fast! Back of a length on middle and leg. Andy McBrine waits for the delivery to arrive and pulls it hard towards deep square leg fence for four more runs.

57.12

It was beautiful running in between the wickets! On a length just outside off. Andy McBrine stays at his stance and cuts it towards deep cover point and calls for double.

Tanaka Chivanga is brought back into the attack.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 57 overs : 239/9

M Humphreys23 (26)

A McBrine21 (41)

T Chatara15-3-44-1

56.60

On a length around off. Matthew Humphreys hangs back and pats it towards gully.

56.50

Full on middle. Matthew Humphreys gets forward and blocks it well.

56.44

FOUR! BEAUTIFULL! Matthew Humphreys is just not over with his strokeplay! Fuller delivery just outside off. Matthew Humphreys plants his front foot and launches the delivery over the mid off region. No one at the long off to save the boundary and four more runs for Matthew Humphreys.

56.30

Banged a short delivery on middle. Matthew Humphreys hangs back and solidly defends it towards mid-wicket.

56.21

Baack of a length on leg and middle. Andy McBrine nudges it towards mid-wicket and gets a single.

56.10

Back of a length on leg. Andy McBrine stays at his stance and lifts his willow up. The ball thumps his upper thigh pads and the ball parries towards the fine leg region.

Runs Scored 15 Runs

Score after 56 overs : 234/9

M Humphreys19 (22)

A McBrine20 (39)

B Muzarabani17-4-53-3

55.66

SIX! Wow, that has gone many a mile and 15 runs come off that over! An aggressive short ball from Blessing Muzarabani at the batter, Humphreys though hangs back and is able to swivel and hook it a long way over the square leg fence for a biggie.

55.54

FOUR MORE! That's loose from Blessing Muzarabani and Humphreys now moves into double digits. Just too short and wide, Humphreys throws his hands at it and cuts it well behind point for yet another boundary. Ireland lead by 18 runs now.

55.40

A bumper now around the off stump line, Matthew Humphreys backs away to pull but is well beaten.

55.30

Back of a length and outside off, gently shaping away, Matthew Humphreys has a poke at it but gets beaten past the outside edge.

55.24

FOUR! Matthew Humphreys is making full use of this opportunity as Ireland continue to chip away. Slightly back of a length and outside off, Humphreys stays back and gets his hands through the line of the ball, slapping it away through the cover region for a boundary.

55.11

Just short of a good length and angling back into the batter, Andy McBrine tucks it into the gap at mid-wicket and picks up another single.

Runs Scored 9 Runs

Score after 55 overs : 219/9

M Humphreys5 (17)

A McBrine19 (38)

T Chatara14-3-39-1

54.60

Short of a length and wide of the off stump, Matthew Humphreys looks to cut but misses.

54.54b

No chance for the keeper and Clive Madande cannot believe it! Good length on the pads, this one angles down leg sharply and Clive is caught flat-footed. The ball yet again rolls away into the fine leg fence.

54.44

FOUR! Hammered away! Floated up full and a bit wide of the off stump, Matthew Humphreys throws his hands at it and swats the ball square past the point fielder to pick up four runs.

Commentary

All in readiness for the action to begin on Day 2! It will also be the start of a new innings and the umpires have taken their places. The players of Zimbabwe gather up in a huddle and spread out on the field. It will be Peter Moor and skipper Andy Balbirnie who will open the innings for Ireland. Richard Ngarava has the new ball in hand and raring to go. Let's play...

The Roy Torrens Bell that was inaugurated yesterday, is back in focus and it is a legend of Irish cricket, Kevin O'Brien who rings the bell to signal the start of Day 2's play. This bell will now be carried across grounds in Ireland for future international matches as well.

Just a few minutes left now for Day 2 to begin and 98 overs are scheduled to be bowled in the day to make up for the loss of overs on Day 1. We will also have a slightly longer afternoon session with Tea being taken a little later than scheduled. Let's now have a look at the pitch report as well - The pitch does not have a lot of grass and there was no lateral movement but the key thing to look out for will be the footmarks which are starting to come off. Mentions that Ireland could blook to bat all day today and we can expect spin on Day 3 and 4.

We are still about 20 minutes away from live action on Day 2 and it looks like we will get a scheduled start thanks to a rain-free morning thus far in Belfast. Let's now move away from cricket a bit and talk about the 2024 Paris Olympics. A few of the sporting events have already gotten underway but officially, the 33rd Olympic Games gets underway today. The opening ceremony is scheduled to start at 11 pm IST (5.30 pm GMT) and it sure should be a spectacle to watch. Here's wishing all the athletes taking part in the 2024 Olympics, the best of luck.

It is certain that both teams will strive to apply themselves better today. The visitors, with a relatively inexperienced side, will come hard at the experienced Ireland batters. But can they bring out their absolute best and restrict the Irish lineup to a total lower than their own? Or will Ireland capitalize on this small first-innings deficit and build a strong lead? We are moments away from finding out as Day 2 action is not far away.

Zimbabwe, after a strong start with the bat, would have been disappointed with how things unfolded in the second half of the day. Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure had exceptional outings, but the rest of the batting lineup faltered. Sean Williams, with his aggressive approach, got off to a promising start but lost his wicket to spin, which triggered the collapse. They would have loved to bowl a few overs to end the first day's play, however, with 210 runs on the board, they will now look to make the most of the new ball, especially after observing the effective lines used by the Irish bowlers.

After a hard day’s work and a decent effort in the first session on Day 1, Ireland came back stronger and reaped significant rewards in the afternoon session, tilting the game back in the balance. The final session was the icing on the cake for the home side as they successfully triggered a collapse, bundling out Zimbabwe for just 210 runs. Fortunately for Ireland, rain brought an early halt to the day's play in the last hour, sparing them from having to bat in challenging overcast conditions.

Hello and welcome to Day 2 action of this One-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe, coming to you from the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast, the newest addition to the list of venues hosting Men's Test cricket. After an exhilarating first day of cricket, the stage is perfectly set for an exciting Day 2.

... DAY 2, SESSION 1 ...

Right then, that is it from Day 1 of the One-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe in Belfast and it sure was an intriguing day of Test cricket. All eyes will be on Day 2 and on how Ireland fare with the bat in their first innings. The wicket certainly looks good to score runs on but there is something in it for the bowlers which will make things even more interesting. Without the weather playing spoilsport, Day 2 will begin on Friday at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT) but you can join us sooner for the build-up. Cheers!

Barry McCarthy, the Irish pacer is now down for a chat. He says the two openers batted beautifully for Zimbabwe and as a bowing unit they could have been a bit fuller and could have brought the outside edges to play which was then discussed during Lunch. Adds that bowling seems exciting when the ball moves a bit and bounces well and they knew they needed one to maybe break through. Talks about the extended spells and says it feels good for as long as the ball is coming out well from the hands. Says Andy McBrine got the important wicket of Sean Willams and it was a nice call from the skipper to give him the ball. He appreciates Mark Adair for his 200th international wicket and the way he bowled on home soil. Further says that it feels great to play a test match and he was on the sidelines in the 2018 game against Pakistan and the team was really excited heading into this game. Concludes that they will look to carry on the momentum and bat well tomorrow.

Prince Masvaure, the star batter for Zimbabwe, is down for a chat. He says he played like he did a few years ago and it felt good to perform the way he did. Says that he goes a long way back with Joylord Gumbie and it was nice to have a good start for the side. Further says that Ireland's bowlers fought back really well and came back strong towards the end. Says Test cricket is all about keeping fit mentally and he made sure he kept things nice and simple to have done well. Concludes that they will take the score and with the kind of bowling they have they should be able to do well too but with Ireland being a strong side they will be ready to put in the hard yards.

In the final session, we saw Andy Balbirnie make use of spin as Andy McBrine was given an extended spell even after Sean Williams took him apart on a couple of occasions but McBrine's persistence was a huge turning point in the context of the first innings. McBrine went on a wicket-taking spree and sent back 3 batters as the likes of Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy cleaned up the tail without much of a fuss. Zimbabwe will be gutted to not put on a good score and also about the fact that they didn't get to bowl at all on Day 1 as they could have exploited the evening conditions.

Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy returned with improved precision in the second session, and their tighter lines and lengths yielded three crucial wickets, including that of Joylord Gumbie. The disciplined bowling effectively stemmed the flow of runs, allowing the Irish pacers to finish the session on a high note with the score reading 153/3.

Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure provided Zimbabwe with a strong start, skillfully navigating the early threats from the Irish pacers. The bowlers, slightly off their mark initially, allowed the batters to settle and build momentum. By the end of the first session, Gumbie and Masvaure had accumulated 85 runs without losing a wicket, setting a solid foundation for their innings.

Right then, not the way anyone would have wanted to end the first day's of play in this historical first Test match between Ireland and Zimbabwe but after a fairly decent day weather-wise, the rain has prevailed in the final hour or so and we get to see 71.3 overs of play on Day 1. Let's now quickly recap what happened in Zimbabwe's first innings.

UPDATE 10.40 pm IST (5.10 pm GMT) - It seems like the crowd is making their way out of the ground and this might be it for Day 1. The visuals are still pretty gloomy and the ground staff are seen covering more of the ground. A minute or so later, we have official news and PLAY HAS BEEN ABANDONED ON DAY 1!

UPDATE 10.28 pm IST (4.58 pm GMT) - As per a few sources, the umpires have scheduled an inspection for 10.35 pm IST (5.05 pm GMT). However, if they feel that play cannot get started by 10.45 pm IST (5.15 pm GMT), then that will be it for Day 1 and if not then Ireland will have to come out to bat for about 15 or so minutes under unfavorable conditions. Stick around as an official word is not far away.

UPDATE 10.19 pm IST (4.49 pm GMT) - The rain has stopped and we can see a rainbow in the background. The ground staff are already working around the clock to get things ready for play. The covers are still firmly on and it will probably take a while to get the ground ready given there's not much of sunlight at the moment. Stick around for more updates.

UPDATE 10.09 pm IST (4.39 pm GMT) - Right then, we should have had the players out by now but the rain has picked up in intensity and more parts of the ground are now under covers. It is also quite dark and gloomy which gives the feeling that this could be a long delay and with about just 50 minutes left in the day's play, we might not even see play resume on Day 1. Let's still hope for the best and hope that we do see Ireland's innings get underway before the day ends. Stay tuned for further updates.

UPDATE 10.03 pm IST (4.33 pm GMT) - Well then, a few minutes after the players leave for the change-over break, a few drops of rain have started to fall and it is heavy enough for the covers to come on. The ticker on the screen shows that play will resume at 10.07 pm IST (4.37 pm GMT) but if the rain persists, we might have a bit of a delay. Stay tuned for more updates on this.

Having restricted Zimbabwe to 210 runs, Ireland find themselves in a favorable position. With the pitch offering little assistance, the batters are likely to have a relatively smooth time navigating the end of the day's play. Ireland will aim to get through the initial overs unscathed and finish the day on a high note. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe will be eager to make early breakthroughs to shift the momentum and bring the game back into balance. Stick around as the second innings come to you in a bit.

Prince Masvaure held firm for Zimbabwe, with Sean Williams adopting a counter-attacking approach as they began the third session. However, Curtis Campher’s breakthrough, dismissing Masvaure for 74, marked the turning point. Andy McBrine then took center stage, claiming consecutive wickets of Sean Williams and Clive Madande with successive deliveries. This dramatic sequence initiated a collapse that saw Zimbabwe tumble from a promising 143/3 to a precarious 210 all out. Andy McBrine remained the pick of the bowlers for Ireland with his 3 wickets and so did Barry McCarthy as Mark Adair picked up a couple of wickets as well.

The first innings has concluded, with Ireland orchestrating a dramatic collapse to limit Zimbabwe to a modest total of just 210 runs. Zimbabwe will undoubtedly be disheartened by the way they squandered the substantial advantage that they had established by the end of the first session.

71.3W

OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Barry McCarthy finishes the innings with three to his name! Zimbabwe encounter a collapse of enormity to be bundled up for 210 runs on the board. McCarthy comes from wider on the crease from over the wicket angle and lands it on a hard length around middle. Gets the ball to shape away off the deck drawing Tendai Chatara to play at it. Chatara looks to keep it out with the straight bat but the movement off the deck catches an outside edge and goes straight into the mitts of Lorcan Tucker behind the stumps.

71.21

Attacks the stumps, on a fuller length, Tanaka Chivanga drives it on the full to long off for a single.

71.10

Starts from over the wicket and lands it full and into the pads, Tanaka Chivanga gets his bat ahead and pushes it to mid on.

Mark Adair has been given a break and Barry McCarthy comes back in as Ireland look to clean things up quickly here.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 71 overs : 209/9

T Chivanga6 (18)

T Chatara0 (9)

A McBrine13-2-37-3

70.61

Drags the length fractionally short and on the pads, Tanaka Chivanga tucks it past short leg for a single.

70.50

Fires this full and on leg, Tanaka Chivanga pads it out to short leg.

Ireland
Zimbabwe
Ireland
Zimbabwe
Batter R B 4s 6s SR
P Moor

c J Gumbie b R Ngarava

0 3 0 0 0
A Balbirnie

c P Masvaure b B Muzarabani

4 8 1 0 50
C Campher

c B Bennett b R Ngarava

0 1 0 0 0
H Tector

c C Madande b R Ngarava

0 6 0 0 0
P Stirling

c C Madande b R Ngarava

10 16 1 0 62.50
L Tucker

b B Muzarabani

56 64 10 0 87.50
A McBrine

not out

55 82 5 0 67.07
M Adair

not out

24 38 4 0 63.15
Extras

(b 7,lb 0,w 1,nb 1,Penalty 0)

9
Total 36.1 (RR: 4.37)
158/6

Did not bat: B McCarthy, C Young, M Humphreys

Fall of wickets:

(P Moor, 1.2 ov) (C Campher, 1.3 ov) (A Balbirnie, 2.2 ov) (H Tector, 5.1 ov) (P Stirling, 5.5 ov) (L Tucker, 25.3 ov)
Bowler O M R W ER
B Muzarabani
13 2 52 2 4.00
R Ngarava
11 1 53 4 4.81
T Chatara
6 1 18 0 3.00
S Williams
5.1 0 21 0 4.06
V Nyauchi
1 0 7 0 7.00
Batter R B 4s 6s SR
J Gumbie

c A Balbirnie b C Young

24 45 3 0 53.33
P Masvaure

c L Tucker b B McCarthy

12 32 2 0 37.50
D Myers

lbw b M Adair

57 142 4 0 40.14
C Ervine

lbw b M Adair

7 22 0 0 31.81
S Williams

c L Tucker b C Young

40 65 4 0 61.53
B Bennett

c P Moor b M Humphreys

10 18 1 0 55.55
C Madande

c B McCarthy b A McBrine

10 30 1 0 33.33
B Muzarabani

c H Tector b A McBrine

0 9 0 0 0
R Ngarava

c L Tucker b A McBrine

11 22 2 0 50
T Chivanga

c M Adair b A McBrine

6 35 0 0 17.14
T Chatara

not out

4 6 1 0 66.66
Extras

(b 4,lb 11,w 1,nb 0,Penalty 0)

16
Total 71.0 (RR: 2.77)
197/10

Did not bat:

Fall of wickets:

(J Gumbie, 12.4 ov) (P Masvaure, 13.1 ov) (C Ervine, 23.2 ov) (S Williams, 41.4 ov) (B Bennett, 48 ov) (C Madande, 58.4 ov) (D Myers, 59.2 ov) (B Muzarabani, 62.1 ov) (R Ngarava, 68.1 ov) (T Chivanga, 71 ov)
Bowler O M R W ER
M Adair
15 1 42 2 2.80
B McCarthy
16 2 33 1 2.06
C Young
10 2 37 2 3.70
C Campher
2 0 12 0 6.00
A McBrine
23 6 38 4 1.65
M Humphreys
5 0 20 1 4.00
Batter R B 4s 6s SR
P Moor

c C Madande b B Muzarabani

79 105 11 0 75.23
A Balbirnie

c J Gumbie b T Chivanga

19 45 2 0 42.22
C Campher

c S Williams b T Chivanga

8 17 1 0 47.05
H Tector

lbw b T Chivanga

4 20 1 0 20
P Stirling

c C Ervine b S Williams

22 63 2 0 34.92
L Tucker

lbw b B Muzarabani

0 1 0 0 0
A McBrine

lbw b T Chatara

28 45 2 0 62.22
M Adair

b S Williams

0 4 0 0 0
B McCarthy

c S Williams b T Chatara

1 19 0 0 5.26
C Young

b B Muzarabani

3 4 0 0 75
M Humphreys

not out

27 31 4 1 87.09
Extras

(b 42,lb 5,w 9,nb 3,Penalty 0)

59
Total 58.3 (RR: 4.27)
250/10

Did not bat:

Fall of wickets:

(A Balbirnie, 15.2 ov) (C Campher, 21.1 ov) (H Tector, 25.2 ov) (P Moor, 36.5 ov) (L Tucker, 37 ov) (P Stirling, 43.4 ov) (M Adair, 45.2 ov) (B McCarthy, 50.3 ov) (C Young, 51.1 ov) (A McBrine, 58.3 ov)
Bowler O M R W ER
R Ngarava
11 0 53 0 4.81
T Chatara
15.3 3 47 2 3.03
B Muzarabani
17 4 53 3 3.11
T Chivanga
10 2 39 3 3.90
S Williams
5 1 11 2 2.20
Batter R B 4s 6s SR
J Gumbie

c C Campher b B McCarthy

49 99 7 0 49.49
P Masvaure

c L Tucker b C Campher

74 152 8 0 48.68
D Myers

b B McCarthy

10 24 2 0 41.66
C Ervine

c A McBrine b C Young

5 32 0 0 15.62
S Williams

c P Stirling b A McBrine

35 41 5 0 85.36
B Bennett

c L Tucker b M Adair

8 28 1 0 28.57
C Madande

c C Young b A McBrine

0 1 0 0 0
B Muzarabani

c P Stirling b A McBrine

4 9 1 0 44.44
R Ngarava

c M Humphreys b M Adair

5 13 1 0 38.46
T Chivanga

not out

7 20 0 0 35
T Chatara

c L Tucker b B McCarthy

0 10 0 0 0
Extras

(b 4,lb 5,w 4,nb 0,Penalty 0)

13
Total 71.3 (RR: 2.94)
210/10

Did not bat:

Fall of wickets:

(J Gumbie, 31 ov) (D Myers, 38.3 ov) (C Ervine, 48 ov) (P Masvaure, 55.1 ov) (S Williams, 62.1 ov) (C Madande, 62.2 ov) (B Bennett, 63.3 ov) (B Muzarabani, 64.5 ov) (R Ngarava, 68 ov) (T Chatara, 71.3 ov)
Bowler O M R W ER
M Adair
18 1 49 2 2.72
B McCarthy
15.3 5 42 3 2.70
C Young
14 1 40 1 2.85
C Campher
11 2 33 1 3.00
A McBrine
13 2 37 3 2.84
Ireland
Zimbabwe
Ireland
Zimbabwe

Commentary

Right then, Andy Balbirnie now walks up to the podium and is handed the trophy for winning the One-off Test match and the Irish players on him in celebration. Also, that is it from this historic Test match and it is Ireland who have reigned victorious at home against a determined Zimbabwe side. We hope you enjoyed are coverage but ticketing action doesn't stop here as the Final of the Women's Asia Cup between hosts Sri Lanka and India is nearing a fascinating conclusion. You can switch tabs and read our coverage of that game. Until next time then, take care and goodbye!

The skipper of Ireland, Andy Balbirnie is up for a chat. Balbirnie says that they had a chat last night with their two best batters about how to execute the plan. He continues that the morning pitch today was really flat, and very good to bat on. He further says that the local boy Andy McBrine helped them to win this match. He also says that the win would not help them in any qualification but he is really feeling proud of how his boys have reacted to win the match. He ends up saying they have worked hard for this and got the result at the end of the day.

Craig Ervine, the captain of Zimbabwe says that certainly these games that move pretty fast are exciting to watch and the conditions were such that there was always something in it for the bowlers as well as the batters. Adds that they made the same mistake in both innings with the bat as the lower order let them down and there were a couple of debutants who will learn from this experience. Mentions that the pacers were excellent and utilized the conditions well and would have liked to bowl a few more overs on Day 3 but it is what it is and goes on to applaud Tanaka Chivanga for coming back out after the concussion. On Victor Nyauchi, he says that Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani had bowled well and wanted to give those to another burst but unfortunately, it didn't work out. On their brewing rivalry with Ireland, he says every time they play, it is a right affair and is looking forward to more such encounters in the future.

Andy McBrine is the PLAYER OF THE MATCH for his match-winning display with both bat and ball. McBrine starts by saying that he feels fantastic to win the match. He continues that he and Lorcan Tucker had a good partnership which made the situation positive. He continues that on the previous day, they were thankful that the rain came on. He further adds that he is working on his bowling and is happy to gather wickets and says that he is more than satisfied with his pacers. Ends by saying that he is happy that his family is here to witness this exceptional match.

The Presentation ceremony...

Day 4 was the deciding day and overhead conditions changed completely which allowed Ireland back in the game but credit must go to the pair of Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine who came out with a positive intent and put the bad balls away. Both of them went on to score half centuries but it was the willy southpaw, McBrine who stayed on till the end and along with Mark Adair got his side over the line. McBrine had a game to remember as he picked up 7 wickets across the two innings and scored a match-winning fifty in the fourth innings. Adair, who was the hero of Ireland's first Test victory a few months ago, fitted hit the winning runs even after suffering a dislocated finger on Day 3.

Day 3 is known as the moving day in Test cricket and boy, we saw the game move at a rapid pace. Zimbabwe faltered early in their second innings with both openers being dismissed for a low score. Dion Myers and Sean Williams led the fight back for the visitors as the hosts kept on spilling catch after catch. Once the partnership was broken, the Irish bowlers broke through the lower order and bundled out Zimbabwe for 197 runs. Needing 158 for the win, Ireland walked out to bat under gloomy conditions and Richard Ngarava bowled a stellar spell and the visitors ended the day in pole position as Ireland were left reeling at 33/5.

Day 2 was a similar story as Ireland batted decently in the first session but lost their way after Lunch and it required a substantial last-wicket stand between Andy McBrine and Matthew Humphreys to bail them out. Zimbabwe were brilliant in terms of picking up wickets but as many as 59 extras meant that they conceded a first-innings lead of 40 runs and had it all to do with the bat.

The game can be termed as a slow-boiler to an extent as in the first session on Day 1, not much happened. However, post-Lunch, the game opened up and we saw wickets fall left, right and center. Day 1 was cut short but a total of 71.3 overs were bowled which was enough for Zimbabwe to be bowled out for 210 runs. Prince Masvaure starred with the bat as Barry McCarthy and Andy McBrine picked up three wickets each for Ireland.

IRELAND HAVE THEIR SECOND TEST WIN! Stormont in Belfast - the newest Test cricket venue has just witnessed an instant classic between Ireland and Zimbabwe. Hosts Ireland have gone on to win back-to-back Test matches for the first time ever, just a few months after notching up their maiden Test win. Zimbabwe played their part though and could have won the game but it wasn't meant to be. A joyous moment for Ireland as it is their first home Test victory as well and the applause from the crowd don't seem to stop.

36.14

FOUR! Done and dusted! The crowd erupts as history has been made in Belfast, two back-to-back Test wins for the Ireland! Sean Williams bowls it fuller on and around off. Mark Adair strides out and uses his bottom hand to loft it over the mid on region and no one at the long on fence to stop that. Mark Adair finishes off in style and it's a huge day for the Irish cricket team. Ireland beats Zimbabwe by four wickets in their first meeting in a Test match.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 36 overs : 154/6

A McBrine55 (82)

M Adair20 (37)

R Ngarava11-1-53-4

35.60

Huge appeal once again but nothing from the Umpire! Richard Ngarava bowls much fuller on middle and leg angling in. Andy Balbirnie tries to flick it but misses on the inner edge. The ball thumps the pad but it seems it would past the leg side.

35.50

Back of a length on middle. Andy McBrine shuffles a bit to pull it towards square leg but misses and thumps his stomach. The ball dropped down and got stuck in his pad. He walks off and hands the delivery to the bowler.

35.41

Singles are coming comfortably now! Fuller delivery just outside off, angling it away from the batter. Mark Adair hangs back and dabs it towards the backward point region for a single.

35.31

Excellent running and every run is now being applauded by the crowd, just 5 more required! Hard length on middle and angling in, Mark Adair pushes the ball down in front of mid on and scampers across for one.

35.21

On a good length and shaping it back into the pads, Mark Adair stabs the ball down wide of the keeper down the leg side and runs a single.

35.10

Top delivery! On a hard length on off, this one shoots off the deck and angles across sharply as Mark Adair plays inside the line of the ball.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 35 overs : 151/6

A McBrine54 (79)

M Adair18 (34)

S Williams5-0-17-0

34.60

Quicker now, short and on leg. Andy McBrine nudges it towards square leg for no runs.

34.51

Drangs his lengh back aorund off. Mark Adair cuts it towards deep cover region and gets another important single.

34.40

On a length and on leg. Mark Adair clips it towards the mad at mid-wicket.

34.30

Short and aorund off. Mark Adair eases it towards the cover region.

34.21

Short delivery on middle and leg. Andy McBrine flicks it towards square leg for a single. 8 runs needed now!

34.12

In air.. but safe! It looks like Andy McBrine wants to finish it off early! Flat and fuller on off and middle. Andy McBrine comes dancing down the track to loft it, but fails to gain the desired elevation. The ball drops safe at long on the region where Tendai Chatara has a chase but fails to get the skier. Two runs taken in between !

With just 11 runs more required for Ireland, the umpires have officially extended play!

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 34 overs : 147/6

M Adair17 (31)

A McBrine51 (76)

R Ngarava10-1-50-4

33.60

On a length on middle. Mark Adair flicks it towards mid-wicket.

33.50

Back of a length just outside off. Mark Adair hops and blocks it down the pitch.

33.44

FOUR! The timing of that flick was just exquisite! Runs are coming thick and fast from the Irish willows! Richard Ngarava bowls it fuller on middle and shapes it towards the middle stump. Mark Adair detects the swing and glances it from the crease towards the deep mid-wicket fence for four more runs added into his account.

There seems to be a slight delay as Richard Ngarava seems to have swallowed an insect and is just checking out his throat. Also, there seems to be an issue with the foot marks but we are now good to continue.

33.31

Short and wide outside off. Andy McBrine eases it towards deep point and gets another single.

33.21

Fuller on the pads. Mark Adair flicks it towards fine leg for a single.

33.11

FIFTY FOR Andy McBrine! What an exceptional inning by one of the experienced players of Ireland! This one is short and wide outside off. Andy McBrine stabs it towards the deep point region and takes a comfortable single. He raises his bat to the occasion and soaks all the applause from the Irish spectators.

Richard Ngarava is brought back into the attack and Craig Ervine will be hoping he pulls off a miracle just as he did on Day 3.

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 33 overs : 140/6

M Adair12 (27)

A McBrine49 (74)

V Nyauchi1-0-7-0

32.60

Fuller delivery on off and angles it in towards the batter. Mark Adair defends it down.

32.52

Fuller on pads. Mark Adair eases it towards vacant mid-wicket and gets a couple of runs.

32.44

FOUR! EXCELLENT SHOT! Victor Nyauchi pitches it up outside off. Mark Adair plants his front foot and drives it beautifully through the cover region. The shot was just like the cream on the top of a cake. Only 20 more required for Ireland now.

32.31

Pitches up, on middle and leg. Andy McBrine flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.

32.20

Fullish delivery on stump. Andy Balbirnie pushes it back to the bowler.

32.10

Superb glovework by Clive Madande. Fuller down the leg. Andy McBrine tries to flick it but misses. The keeper dives to his right and makes an interesting stop.

Right then, we do finally see the concussion substitute in action as Victor Nyauchi has now been handed the ball just a few minutes before the Lunch break. However, if the umpires feel there is a possibility of the game ending, they can extend the session for half an hour more.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 32 overs : 133/6

M Adair6 (24)

A McBrine48 (71)

B Muzarabani13-2-52-2

31.60

Fullish delivery to end the over. Mark Adair pushes it back to the bowler. Blessing Muzarabani bends and makes a one-handed stop.

31.50

Back of a length now outside off. Mark Adair lifts his willow up and leaves it alone to the keeper.

31.40

Fuller delivery on off, angling it in. Mark Adair tries to work it across the line but gets the connection on his outer edge. The ball rolls towards cover for no runs.

31.30

Full-length delivery again just outside off, shaping it in. Mark Adair with no footwork hangs back and taps it outside off solidly.

31.20

Digs it in short now outside off. Mark Adair stands tall to perform an uppercut but misses the connection. Clive Madande keeps it well.

31.10

Fuller delivery outside off, around sixth stump. Mark Adair plants his front foot and blocks it outside off.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 31 overs : 133/6

A McBrine48 (71)

M Adair6 (18)

S Williams4-0-13-0

30.60

Fullish delivery on off and middle. Andy McBrine lunges and eases it back to the bowler.

30.51

Drags his length back on middle and leg. Mark Adair tucks it toward mid-wicket to get a single.

30.40

Pitches up on the stumps. Mark Adair prods and defends it down.

30.30

On a length, outside off. Mark Adair leaves it alone.

30.21

Short on middle and leg. Andy McBrine uses the spin and nudges it towards square leg for a single.

30.10

Short delivery outside off. Andy McBrine cuts it from the inner part of his willow towards the left of the slip.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 30 overs : 131/6

M Adair5 (15)

A McBrine47 (68)

B Muzarabani12-1-52-2

29.60

Good length, wide of the off stump and left alone by Adair.

29.50

Short of a length outside off and angling away, this one jumps off the deck and Mark Adair does well to sway away from the line of the moving ball.

29.41b

Short ball, spilled down the leg side, Clive Madande dives to his right and parries the ball away a bit. The batters pick up a bye.

29.30

Dug in a bit shorter and angled well across the off stump, Andy McBrine doesn't play at it.

29.20

Good length in and around the off stump line, Andy McBrine stays put and pushes it out on the off side.

29.12

Pitches the ball up on middle and leg stump, Andy McBrine clips it nicely and well in front of square on the leg side for a couple of runs more. McBrine moves on to 47 now.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 29 overs : 128/6

M Adair5 (13)

A McBrine45 (64)

S Williams3-0-11-0

28.60

Loops the ball up but on a shorter length, Mark Adair looks to pull but miscues it to mid on.

28.50

Nicely tossed up and outside off stump, Adair leaves it alone.

28.40

Shorter in length over middle and leg, Mark Adair stays back and tucks it down behind square on the leg side.

28.30

Bowled flatter and just outside off stump, Mark Adair watchfully leaves it alone.

28.21

Full and angled across the off stump, Andy McBrine gets inside the line and sweeps it behind square leg for a single.

28.12

A bit of width on offer outside off stump, Andy McBrine slaps the ball away through the cover-point region for a couple of runs.

Change? Yes, Sean Williams joins the attack yet again.

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 28 overs : 125/6

A McBrine42 (62)

M Adair5 (9)

B Muzarabani11-1-50-2

27.61

Length ball on the pads, McBrine tucks it away neatly in front of square on the leg side and picks up a single. Ireland now need 33 runs for the win and Zimbabwe need 4 wickets.

27.51

Back of a length and outside off, Mark Adair presses back and nudges it down just behind the man at backward point for a single.

27.44

FOUR! Not where Adair intended it to go but he will take it with both hands. Pitched up wide of the off stump, Adair goes hard at the cover drive and gets it off the outer half of the bat between the gully region and backward point for a boundary.

27.30

Hard length around off stump, Mark Adair solidly blocks it to the man at short extra cover.

27.20

That's kept low! On a good length and shaping away from around off, the ball though dies after pitching and Mark Adair is beaten all ends up.

27.11b

Prodigious movement on offer for Blessing Muzarabani. Too short and wide, Andy McBrine goes chasing after it but the ball keeps angling away and goes past the diving keeper and through the slip cordon. The batters get a bye.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 27 overs : 118/6

M Adair0 (5)

A McBrine41 (60)

T Chatara6-1-18-0

26.60

On a fuller length and wide of the off stump, Mark Adair leaves it alone for the keeper to collect. That wicket has certainly dried up the runs for Ireland.

26.50

On a shortish length on middle and angling down leg, Mark Adair walks across a bit to the off side, looking to flick it off the legs but the ball goes down to the keeper.

26.41

Back of a length on leg stump, Andy McBrine walks down the pitch and tucks it off his hips down to fine leg for a single.

26.30

Beaten! Just pulls the length back a smidge and angles it across the off stump, Andy McBrine attempts the cover drive again but it isn't full enough to drive and the ball beats the outside edge.

26.20

Pitched up outside off stump, Andy McBrine gets on the front foot and drives it away straight to the man at covers.

26.10

Half a shout for LBW but it is pitching outside leg stump. Tendai Chatara hits the deck hard around leg stump and angles it across, the ball stays low and takes Andy McBrine completely by surprise and he gets pinged right in front of the stumps but will stay on.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 26 overs : 117/6

M Adair0 (3)

A McBrine40 (56)

B Muzarabani10-1-44-2

25.60

Good length on the fifth stump line, Mark Adair shoulders arms at it.

25.50

Play and a miss! Back of a length again and outside off stump, angling away, Mark Adair has a bit of a poke at it but the ball eludes him.

25.40

Just back of a length and over the stumps, Mark Adair hops onto the back foot and keeps it out.

Mark Adair comes out to the middle.

25.3W

OUT! BOWLED'EM! Is there a twist in the tale? Blessing Muzarabani finally gets Zimbabwe their first wicket on Day 4 and this could make things interesting. Muzarabani goes a bit wider on the crease and bowls it slightly fuller, angling it in from outside off. The ball doesn't rise much and Lorcan Tucker goes for the cover drive but the ball takes a bottom edge and crashes into the stumps. Tucker has to walk back after a fine knock and Ireland now need 41 runs with 4 wickets in hand.

25.24

FOUR! Not a good follow-up delivery from Blessing Muzarabani and Lorcan Tucker is all over it. Banged in halfway down the track and angling down leg, Tucker gets in position and hooks it in between the fielders at deep square leg and fine leg for a boundary.

25.10

Oh, too close for comfort! Lovely length from Blessing Muzarabani, using his height and kissing the good length around off. The ball nips away sharply and Lorcan Tucker tries to block it off the back foot but the ball zips past the outside edge.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 25 overs : 113/5

A McBrine40 (56)

L Tucker52 (61)

T Chatara5-1-17-0

24.60

Hits the deck hard around middle and off and gets the ball to leave the left-hander, Andy McBrine hangs back and pulls out of the shot, playing inside the line of the ball.

24.51

Back of a length outside off, Lorcan Tucker hangs back and lets the ball come on before dabbing it wide of gully for a quick single.

24.40

Chatara is bowling a fine spell here but needs to pick up a wicket. Goes full on off and tries to slip one in through the gate, Lorcan Tucker is up to the challenge and digs it out to the right of mid on.

24.30

Good length in the channel around off, Lorcan Tucker defends the ball solidly off the front foot.

24.20

Just back of a length and angled back in from around off, this one jags back in a fair bit and Tucker is beaten on the inside edge, getting hit high on the pads.

24.10

Hard length around off stump, Lorcan Tucker stands tall and punches it down towards cover.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 24 overs : 112/5

A McBrine40 (55)

L Tucker51 (56)

B Muzarabani9-1-40-1

23.60

Full and wide outside off, angling further away, Andy McBrine with an expansive drive but he gets nowhere near the ball.

23.52

That's a top effort in the deep from Brian Bennett. Short ball around the hips, Andy McBrine hangs back and pulls it along the turf and wide of deep fine leg. Bennett races across and dives in to make the save but has to scamper and makes another the save as the ball was rolling back onto the ropes. Two runs taken.

23.40

Another big appeal, this time for LBW and again, it is turned down. Blessing Muzarabani isn't happy with the decision but that was clearly pitching outside leg stump. Pitched up around leg stump and angling across, Andy McBrine plays all over it and gets hit on the pads but survives.

23.30

Banged in on a hard length around off and this one takes off after pitching and angles away from the left-hander.

23.20

A big appeal for caught behind but the umpire shakes his head. Hard length on leg stump and just angling down, Andy McBrine swivels to pull but misses and the ball gets deflected back to the keeper. Clive Madande dives forward to take the catch and replays later show that it did come off the thigh pad, excellent decision.

23.13

Another lovely shot from the willow of Lorcan Tucker and with that he brings up a second Test FIFTY and this could well be a very crucial one as well. Blessing Muzarabani begins a new spell with a full and wide one, Tucker leans on and drives it firmly in front of sweeper cover. The fielder there covers good ground to his right and dives in to save a run. Less than 50 runs required for Ireland now.

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 23 overs : 107/5

L Tucker48 (55)

A McBrine38 (50)

T Chatara4-1-16-0

22.61

Smart batting to take the single right after the boundary. Hard length outside off, Tucker presses back and pushes it away to covers for one.

22.54

FOUR! A shot of real authority from Lorcan Tucker and Zimbabwe are in serious trouble here. Length ball around middle, Tucker just shimmies down the track and lifts the back leg before whipping the ball well in front of mid-wicket and picks up a boundary.

22.41

Back of a length and outside off, punched away off the back foot towards deep point for another single. There's an applause from the crowd as this partnership moves on to 81 runs and becomes Ireland's highest sixth-wicket partnership in Test cricket.

22.30

Pitches the ball further up around off stump, Andy McBrine prods forward and pushes it to mid off.

22.20

Half a shout for LBW but turned down! Hard length on middle and leg, nipping back in sharply, Andy McBrine gets undone as he looks to flick and gets hit on the pads. Probably slanting down leg and looked a tad bit high as well.

22.11

Drop and run! Pitched up in the channel around off, Lorcan Tucker leans on and pushes it away with soft hands to the left of the cover fielder before picking up an easy single.

DRINKS! It has been a fast-paced first hour of play on Day 4 and Ireland have somehow managed to turn things around big time. They came into Day 4 on the verge of being blown away by the Zimbabwean pacers but the pair of Andy McBrine and Lorcan Tucker has batted brilliantly under the basking Sun. The pitch seems pretty flat and the pacers haven't managed to hit their strides at all. A wicket or two can still change the complexion of the game but it has to happen sooner rather than later for Zimbabwe. Let's see how the next phase of play unfolds.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 22 overs : 100/5

L Tucker42 (52)

A McBrine37 (47)

S Williams2-0-8-0

21.61

Good running and with that the 100 comes up for Ireland and there is a huge round of applause from the home fans. Bowled flatter and around off, staying a tad low, Lorcan Tucker camps back and jams the ball away in front of point for a quick single. Ireland now need 58 more runs to win with 5 wickets in hand.

21.50

The arm ball now, spearing it in at the pads, Lorcan Tucker manages to rock back and keep it out.

21.40

Tossed up again and around off stump, Lorcan Tucker presses forward to block it off.

21.30

Tossed up fuller and on the stumps, Tucker leans forward to defend.

21.22

Nicely bowled but Ireland keep chipping away at the target. Flighted ball around off, drifted in and turning away, Lorcan Tucker plays it with soft hands and gets an outside edge that runs down to deep third for a couple of runs.

21.13

Another long chase for Tendai Chatara but this time, there's another fielder backing up and it will be three runs. Fractionally short and around off, Andy McBrine backs away and latches onto the ball before cutting it behind point for three more runs.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 21 overs : 94/5

L Tucker39 (47)

A McBrine34 (46)

T Chatara3-1-9-0

20.60

Good length, in and around the top of off stump and jagging back in, Lorcan Tucker defends it late and with soft hands.

20.51

On a shorter length and outside off stump, Andy McBrine stands tall and cuts the ball away through the point region for a single in the deep.

20.41

Good, positive running! Back of a length and over the stumps, Tucker presses back and just dabs the ball down in front of mid on and picks up a quick single.

20.30

Good length, well wide of the off stump and angling further away, Lorcan Tucker shoulders arms at it.

20.20

Nicely bowled again! Drags the length back and gets it to shape away beautifully from the fourth stump line, Lorcan Tucker plays inside the line of the ball.

20.14

FOUR! Edged and through the gap! Top delivery from Tendai Chatara, pitching it up on a nagging length and in the channel. Lorcan Tucker is drawn into the drive and gets a thick outside edge but luckily for him, the ball between second slip and gully for four more runs.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 20 overs : 88/5

A McBrine33 (45)

L Tucker34 (42)

S Williams1-0-2-0

19.60

Tossed up fuller on off. Andy McBrine pushes it back to the bowler.

19.50

Huge appeal but nothing the Umpire says nothing! Sean Williams drags his length back, pitching it outside off, springing it in. Andy McBrine goes deep into his crease and covers the stump but flicks it but misses. The ball thumps the upper part of his pad. It seems the ball would past down the leg. Good decision by the Umpire!

19.40

Fuller on middle. Andy McBrine lunges and blocks it down as well.

19.30

Fuller on off. Andy McBrine strides out and defends it back to the bowler.

19.22

Tossed up fuller around off. Andy McBrine gets on his knees to sweep it towards deep fine leg. Double taken in between.

19.10

Short delivery to start on middle, spinning it in. Andy McBrine eases it towards short leg.

Time for some spin as Sean Williams is now brought into the attack. Can the golden-arm deliver when his team is under the pump?

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 19 overs : 86/5

L Tucker34 (42)

A McBrine31 (39)

T Chatara2-1-3-0

18.60

Pitches up once again on off and middle. Lorcan Tucker prods and rest it back to the bowler.

18.50

Fuller delivery on the stumps. Lorcan Tucker pushes it back to the bowler.

18.43

Fuller delivery on leg, angling it in. Andy McBrine has a glance at it towards square leg and gets three runs in between. Ireland are remarkably now just 72 runs away from victory, with 5 wickets still intact.

18.30

On a length just outside off. Andy McBrine lunges out and defends it solidly outside off.

18.20

Back of a length around off. Andy McBrine camps back and dabs it down to the bowler.

18.10

Fuller on the stumps. Andy McBrine eases it back to the bowler.

Runs Scored 10 Runs

Score after 18 overs : 83/5

L Tucker34 (40)

A McBrine28 (35)

R Ngarava9-1-43-4

17.60

A dot to close out an expensive over. Quite full and on off stump, Lorcan Tucker eases the ball out to mid off.

17.50

Ooh...that's well bowled! A well-directed short ball right at the batter, Lorcan Tucker gets in an awful position and tries to fend it away but gets it off the shoulder of the bat and the ball lands well short of the gully fielder.

17.40

A dot ball! Fuller and around off, Lorcan Tucker taps the ball away in front of point.

17.34

FOUR! CRACKED! Now that would be some salt over the cut for Zimbabwe! Back of a length on middle and leg. Lorcan Tucker pulls it hard towards the same deep square leg fence and this time, no chance for Tendai Chatara to chase it down. Four more for the Irish men.

17.25

FIVE RUNS! Extraordinary piece of running in between the sticks! Back of a length on leg and middle. Andy McBrine stays deep inside his crease and glances it with soft hands towards the deep square leg region. Tendai Chatara from the short mid-wicket has a chase and saves the boundary but after saving he crashes against the advertisement board. There was no such backup for him and he had to get on his feet and chase the ball back all by himself. Andy McBrine and Lorcan Tucker were excellent with their communication and ran five between the wickets.

17.11

On a length on middle and off, angling away from the batter. Lorcan Tucker plants his front foot halfway towards cover for a single.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 17 overs : 73/5

A McBrine23 (34)

L Tucker29 (35)

T Chatara1-1-0-0

16.60

A maiden to begin with from Tendai Chatara! Pitches up on middle and off. Andy McBrine with no footwork rests the delivery down the pitch.

16.50

Fuller now on middle and off. Andy McBrine pushes it towards mid off for no runs.

16.40

Back of a length on leg and middle. Andy McBrine pats it down from the crease.

16.30

Fuller now wide outside off. Andy McBrine lunges and extends his arm to drive it but finds the fielder at the cover region.

16.20

Back of a length on off. Andy McBrine gets behind the line and dabs it down the track.

16.10

Starts with a bit of a loosener, comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and wide of the off stump, dying down as well. Andy McBrine leaves it alone.

Craig Ervine does make a bowling change and it was certainly required. Tendai Chatara comes into the attack now.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 16 overs : 73/5

L Tucker29 (35)

A McBrine23 (28)

R Ngarava8-1-33-4

15.60

Back of a length just outside off. Lorcan Tucker keeps it outside off.

15.54

FOUR! The timing of the glance was perfect! Poor delivery once again from Richard Ngarava. He is just struggling to get the line and length today. On a length down leg, shaping a shy bit in. Tucker waits for the delivery and glances at it. The ball rolls towards the deep fine leg and picks up a boundary as the 50 partnership also comes up between these two.

15.40

Good-length delivery on middle. Lorcan Tucker prods halfway and blocks it back to the bowler.

15.30

And again, back of a length outside off, angling it away. Lorcan Tucker is happy to make a leave at it as well.

15.20

On a length outside off. Lorcan Tucker prods to cover the stumps and lifts his willow high to leave this one as well.

15.10

Back of a length outside off, shaping it away from the batter. Lorcan Tucker is not interested in playing at it.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 15 overs : 69/5

A McBrine23 (28)

L Tucker25 (29)

B Muzarabani8-1-35-1

14.60

A bit fuller than the previous one on middle. Andy McBrine respects the delivery and pats it down the track.

14.50

On a length on leg and middle. Andy McBrine rocks back and blocks it back to the bowler.

14.40

On a length, down the leg side. Andy McBrine tries to whip it towards his leg side but misses on the inner edge.

14.30

Fuller now on the stump. Andy McBrine with no footwork eases it down.

14.24

FOUR! Back-to-back! Towards the leg side now! Back of a length middle and leg. Andy McBrine rocks back and pulls it hard from the middle of his willow towards the deep mid-wicket fence. Runs are coming thick and fast for Ireland!

14.14

FOUR! GLORIOUS! Good-length delivery outside off, no movement on the ball. Andy McBrine detects the delivery around his radar and punches it hard through cover for another boundary.

Runs Scored 9 Runs

Score after 14 overs : 61/5

L Tucker25 (29)

A McBrine15 (22)

R Ngarava7-1-29-4

13.60

Fuller delivery on middle and off. Lorcan Tucker rests it down.

13.50

Back of a length outside off. Lorcan Tucker tries to cut at it but misses on the outer edge.

13.44

FOUR! STREAKY! Fuller delivery outside off. Lorcan Tucker lunges out to block it outside off, but gets nicked on the outer edge. The ball rolls past the backward point fielder and another boundary is added to Lorcan's account. Ireland now need 97 runs to win.

13.31

Back of a length on middle. Andy McBrine flicks it towards square leg for a single.

13.20

Back of a length on the stumps. Andy McBrine blocks it from the crease.

13.14

FOUR! WONDERFUL! Absolutely cracked shot! Short of a length, outside off. Andy McBrine stays back at his crease and pulls it hard, in front of the deep square leg fence for four more runs. There was a fielder at the deep but couldn't race with the ball.

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 13 overs : 52/5

A McBrine10 (19)

L Tucker21 (26)

B Muzarabani7-1-27-1

12.61

Banged in short over the stumps, Andy McBrine gets on top of the bounce and plays a controlled pull shot down to deep backward square leg for a single.

12.50

On a length outside off. Andy McBrine rocks back and eases it outside off.

12.51wd

WIDE! On a length wide outside off and swings it away from the batter. Andy McBrine has to do noting to it for getting a bonus run.

12.40

Back of a length, but sprays down the leg. Andy McBrine leaves it alone.

12.31

50 up for Ireland! Back of a length on off and middle. Lorcan Tucker stays back and nudges it towards square leg to gather a single. A warm round of applause from the Irish spectators!

12.20

Short delivery on off. Lorcan Tucker hangs back and blocks it down solidly.

12.14

FOUR! Absolutely delightful to see that shot coming up from the willow of Lorcan Tucker! A half volley on off and middle. Lorcan Tucker plants his front foot and eases using the pace of the bowler against him. He gives a firm push and gets the ball towards the right of the bowler and it rolls away towards the long on fence for a boundary.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 12 overs : 45/5

A McBrine9 (16)

L Tucker16 (23)

R Ngarava6-1-20-4

11.60

Back of a length on middle. Andy McBrine camps back and dabs it down, back to the bowler.

11.50

On a length on middle. Andy McBrine looks to pull but gets all gloves at it. The ball rolls towards the mid-wicket region for no runs.

11.41

Good running between the wickets! Fullish delivery once again on off, angling it away from the batter. Lorcan Tucker taps it from the outer part of his willow towards the left of the backward point fielder and sprints down to take a single.

11.32

A bit fuller now on leg and middle. Lorcan Tucker lunges halfway and works it towards square leg for a brace.

11.20

Short delivery on leg and the delivery straightens a bit after pitching. Lorcan Tucker cramps for no room and tries to tap it down but misses and the ball thumps his upper thigh pad.

11.11

Hard-length delivery on middle and leg. Andy McBrine turns a bit and glances it staying deep in his crease towards deep fine leg for one.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 11 overs : 41/5

L Tucker13 (20)

A McBrine8 (13)

B Muzarabani6-1-20-1

10.60

Back of a length outside off. Lorcan Tucker hangs back and keeps it outside off. A maiden over from Muzarabani.

10.50

Good leave! On a length delivery outside off, shaping it in towards the batter. Lorcan Tucker watchfully leaves it. The delivery was a bit dangerous as it was nipping in late.

10.40

And again, a hard-length delivery outside off. Lorcan Tucker is not interested in playing at it.

10.30

Good-length delivery outside off. Lorcan Tucker covers the stump and is happy to not propose anything to it.

10.20

Back of a length once again on off. Lorcan Tucker gets behind the line and dabs it down the pitch.

10.10

On a length outside off. Lorcan Tucker lifts his bat high and leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 10 overs : 41/5

A McBrine8 (13)

L Tucker13 (14)

R Ngarava5-1-16-4

9.64

FOUR! SHOT! Hard length once again on middle and leg, angling in. Andy McBrine whips it towards deep mid-wicket fence four his first boundary of the day.

9.50

Good stop! Back of a length outside off. Andy McBrine cuts it towards the left of the backward point fielder but Brian Bennett dives and makes a one-handed stop. No runs taken!

9.40

Good keeping by Clive Madande! On a length down the leg once again. Andy McBrine leaves it. Clive Madande behind the stump dives to his right and gloves it well.

9.30

Back of a length outside off and this time, shapes it a shy bit away from the batter. Andy McBrine plays it inside the line and gets beaten on the outer edge by a large gap.

9.20

On a length on off. Andy McBrine camps back and dabs it down.

9.10

On a length to start the over, down the leg side. Andy McBrine drops his stance and is happy to not provide anything to it.

Richard Ngarava, with his tail up, will bowl from the other end.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 9 overs : 37/5

L Tucker13 (14)

A McBrine4 (7)

B Muzarabani5-0-20-1

8.60

Good leave! Back of a length outside off, swinging away after leaving the batter. Lorcan Tucker shuffles a bit and lifts his willow up to leave it alone.

8.50

Back of a length on middle. Lorcan Tucker gets behind the line and pats it down.

8.44

FOUR! BEAUTIFUL! What a way to open the account for Irish on Day 4! Fuller delivery a bit wider, outside off. Lorcan Tucker strides out, crouches a bit, extends his arms, and drills it through the gap of the cover region for four runs. That is some positive intent by Lorcan!

8.30

Still no movement with the ball! Blessing Muzarabani bowls full length once again outside off. Lorcan Tucker punches it but towards the fielder at cover.

8.20

Pitches up once again outside off. Lorcan Tucker lunges and pushes it gently once again towards the short cover fielder.

8.10

Blessing Muzarabani comes over the wicket and bowls it full and outside off, on the sixth stump. Lorcan Tucker prods and pushes it towards the cover region for no runs.

We are ready for the start of Day 4 and it is Kyle McCallan, the former Irish international player who rings the Roy Torrens Bell. It is a lovely and bright morning and the umpires slowly make their way out to the middle. The players of Zimbabwe have taken their places on the field and Blessing Muzarabani is at the top of his mark, raring to go. The overnight batters for Ireland, Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine stride out to the middle as well. Let's play...

PITCH REPORT - Kyle McCallan is pitchside. He reckons that it will be the final day of play and adds that on a good length, there are a few indentations and the grass has been removed from the part. Mentions that there will be some up and down movement as the Zimbabwe pacers like to hit the deck and the batters will have to bat out of their skin.

Ten minutes to go for the start of Day 4 and live visuals show that it is bright and sunny at the moment in Belfast which is a huge positive sign for the players and the spectators. So, buckle up and get ready for what could be the final session of play in this game. Also, Victor Nyauchi has been approved as the concussion substitute by the match referee and let's hope that Tanaka Chivanga is back soon.

Right then, the Test match is set up wonderfully and both teams now stand a chance at making history by winning the first-ever Test match to be played in Belfast. The weather forecast for the whole of Day 4 is mostly cloudy and chances of rain are almost none. We have seen a few showers out of the blue, so, rain affecting the day's play cannot be ruled out just yet but the weather should hold up well. Stick around as the start of Day 4 isn't far away.

Chasing 158 runs for the win, Ireland stumbled big time as Richard Ngarava ripped through their top order and there was rain late on Day 3 which meant only 8 overs could be bowled and Ireland lost 5 wickets for just 33 runs. Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine currently occupy the crease but Ireland do bat deep and if this partnership brews for a bit longer, the hosts can have a real chance of notching up back-to-back Test wins for the first-time ever in their fairly short red-ball history.

With both teams having bowled once within the first two days, it was Ireland who irked out a lead of 40 runs. Zimbabwe batted 4 overs late on Day 2 and then came back out on Day 3 with an opportunity to set a defendable total. Zimbabwe weren't at their best with the bat but as many as six dropped catches and a couple of decent knocks in the middle order saw them take a final lead of 157 runs before getting bundled out for 197 runs.

Hello and a warm welcome to Day 4 of the One-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe at Test cricket's newest venue, Stormont in Belfast. We have had three engrossing days of Test cricket and it all boils down to this - Ireland need 125 runs with 5 wickets in hand.

... DAY 4, SESSION 1 ...

Right then, we have had three quite engrossing days of Test cricket, all of which have been marred by rain but haven't been shy of providing entertainment. Also, right at the end of the broadcast, the on-air commentators did confirm that Tanaka Chivanga will be out of the game and will be replaced by a concussion substitute. But who will that substitute player be, is yet to be confirmed. Join us on Sunday for Day 4, in all likeliness the final day of the Test match for the result. The first ball will be bowled at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT), weather permitting that is but you can join us sooner for the build-up. Cheers!

Ireland will be so disappointed with how Day 3 has eventually panned out and just as they seemed to be let off the hook for dropping a massive six catches, these early wickets have pegged them way back. The batters simply didn't turn up in the chase and with the star batter from the first innings, Peter Moor getting out for a duck, no one else has been able to take the mantle. Harry Tector might have been a tad unlucky with his dismissal but overall, the Irish batters have been second-best. Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine have a big job to do early on Day 4 if Ireland are to have any chance of winning this game.

With only 157 runs to defend, Zimbabwe sure did come out all guns blazing and after a wayward first delivery, the front-line pacers were on the money. Richard Ngarava who had a nightmare of a first innings with the ball, bowled probably one of his best spells ever as he sent back four Irish batters in four overs and handed Zimbabwe a huge advantage. Blessing Muzarabani piled on the pressure from the other end and picked up a wicket as well and with just 5 wickets remaining, the visitors will be hoping to spoil the party for the Irish in their first Test match in Belfast.

What a fascinating day of Test cricket we have just witnessed in Stormont and the game sure moved at a brisk pace on Day 3. We saw Zimbabwe get bowled out on Day 1 and then Ireland on Day 2 but on Day 3 we have seen as many as 15 wickets which has taken the game into its final stage. It was another up-and-down innings from Zimbabwe but Andy McBrine's four-fer aided by some good pace bowling saw Ireland bundle out the visitors for 197 runs.

Oh, we didn't see that coming from the recent visuals! PLAY HAS BEEN ABANDONED ON DAY 3! Given it is already the fourth innings and we still have a couple of days left, the umpires have called play off with Ireland being 33/5 in their pursuit of 158 runs for the win.

UPDATE 10.50 pm IST (5.20 pm GMT) - The rain has stopped and the visuals look a bit brighter as well than they did when the players went off. The covers are still on but the groundstaff has started the drying process and we might just see some play after all. Stay tuned as an official update shouldn't be far away.

UPDATE 10.35 pm IST (5.05 pm GMT) - Not much to report from Stormont but it does seem like it isn't raining at the moment and even if it is, it is quite light. Probably, the light is still an issue for the umpires and with Zimbabwe wanting to bowl their pacers, play cannot just resume like that unless there is enough bright light. Let's stay hopeful of getting some more play in before Day 3.

UPDATE 10.19 pm IST (4.49 pm GMT) - A slight drizzle now and things have gotten pretty dark as well. The umpires are in conversation with the Zimbabwean skipper and wait a minute, umpires are taking the players off the field. Initially, the players are taken off for bad light but the rain has just picked up a touch as well. The covers are now coming on which is never a good sign. Stay tuned for more updates and hopefully, it isn't a long delay.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 8 overs : 33/5

A McBrine4 (7)

L Tucker9 (8)

R Ngarava4-1-12-4

7.60

On a length on middle and leg. Andy McBrine tucks it towards wide mid on for no runs.

7.50

Length delivery outside off. Andy McBrine rocks back and punches it outside off.

7.44

FOUR! Runs are coming up from the Irish willow! Full-length delivery from Richard outside of. Andy McBrine lunges forward, leans towards the delivery and drives it wide of the cover fielder for his first boundary of the inning.

7.30

Short of a length at the body line of the batter. Andy McBrine tries to pull it but ends up tucking it towards his leg side.

7.20

Back of a length around off. Andy McBrine gets behind the line and dabs it down.

7.10

Fuller outside off. Andy McBrine tris to block it down but gets beaten on the outer edge.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 7 overs : 29/5

L Tucker9 (8)

A McBrine0 (1)

B Muzarabani4-0-16-1

6.60

Fuller, and shaping in outside off. Lorcan Tucker leaves it alone.

6.54

FOUR! Confidence is fuming from Lorcan Tucker's willow! Short delivery on off and middle. Lorcan Tucker hangs back and pulls it hard towards deep mid-wicket for another boundary. There is some nervous round of applause from the Irish spectators!

6.44

FOUR! Confident piece of batting! This one is fuller just outside off shaping in. Lorcan Tucker lunges halfway, uses the pace of the bowler against him and pushes it towards the long off fence for a boundary.

6.30

Length delivery just outside off. Lorcan Tucker eases it towards gully for no runs.

6.20

Fuller delivery, shaping it in towards the stump. Lorcan Tucker nudges it towards mid-wicket for no runs.

6.10

Length delivery outside off. Lorcan Tucker looks to defend at it but misses on the outer edge.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 6 overs : 21/5

A McBrine0 (1)

L Tucker1 (2)

R Ngarava3-1-8-4

5.60

On a length around off. Andy McBrine gets behind the line and defends it outside off.

Andy McBrine walks in with Ireland in dire straits.

5.5W

OUT! TAKEN! Richard Ngarava is just on fire! This is an exceptional spell! Richard Ngarava bowls this one on a length outside off and nips it away. Paul Stirling looks to drive and gets nicked like any other batter in this inning. The ball carries over towards the right of the keeper. Clive Madande moves to his right and takes the simple catch into his gloves. Ireland 21/5 and on the brink at the moment.

5.40

Back of a length outside off. Paul Stirling plays it inside the line and misses.

5.31

Fuller on pads. Lorcan Tucker tucks it towards mid on for a single.

5.24b

FOUR BYES! Poor work behind the sticks! On a length outside off and the ball straightens after pitching. Lorcan Tucker tires to block it outside off but misses with thin air. Clive Madande behind the stump tries to glove it but the ball bursts out of his hands and goes to the boundary.

Lorcan Tucker is the new man in.

5.1W

OUT! TAKEN! Caught behind! Another bites the dust! The Irish batters are coming and going! Richard Ngarava comes over the wicket and bowls fuller outside off, shaping it further away from the batter. Harry Tector prods forward and tries to drive at it but gets a slight nick on the outer edge. That was just a half appeal from the Chevrons but they got the approval from the Umpire. Tector is devastated as he feels his bat hit the ground and it really seems touch and go but the most important man on the field felt there was an edge and Tector has to make the long walk back to the hut.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 5 overs : 16/3

P Stirling10 (14)

H Tector0 (5)

B Muzarabani3-0-8-1

4.60

Back of a length shapes it in. Paul Stirling tries to glance at it but misses the connection and hits the pads.

4.50

Short delivery outside off. Paul Stirling leaves it alone.

4.42

Short delivery, shaping it in. Paul Stirling looks to pull at it but gets the upper part of is willow. The ball rolls towards square leg region and the batters get a couple of runs.

4.30

Length delivery around off. Paul Stirling gets behind the line and blocks it back to the bowler.

4.20

Good-length delivery outside off. Paul Stirling looks to punch at it but misses on the outer edge.

4.10

Back of a length on middle, jagged in vigorously. Paul Stirling with no footwork tries to flick it but thumps his thigh and the ball loops towards short leg.

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 4 overs : 14/3

P Stirling8 (8)

H Tector0 (5)

R Ngarava2-1-7-2

3.61

On a length on leg. Paul Stirling flicks it towards fine leg and gets a single.

3.54

FOUR! Bad delivery and got punished! Full toss delivery around off. Paul Stirling defects the bad ball and drills it hard through the mid off region to get four important runs.

3.40

On a length on off. Paul Stirling gets behind the line and blocks it down.

3.30

Oh.. what happened there? A huge appeal for a catch and the umpire turns it down. Richard Ngarava bowls a short delivery on middle and off. Paul Stirling covers the stump and drops his stance but the ball thumps the shoulder of the batter and balloons towards the third slip. Zimbabwe players looked very convinced that it came off the bat, but it was a good decision by the umpire!

3.22

On a length on to pads. Paul Stirling hangs back and closes his bat in time to flick it towards square leg for a couple of runs.

3.10

Swing and a miss! Much fuller outside off. Paul Stirling crouches down and looks for a drive but fails to connect and misses on the outer edge.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 3 overs : 7/3

H Tector0 (5)

P Stirling1 (2)

B Muzarabani2-0-6-1

2.60

Oh... some movement off the pitch and a good leave as well! Back of a length on off and middle, angling it in. Harry Tector lifts his bat up and allows the delivery watchfully.

2.50

Short of a length and around middle and leg, the ball nips back in, Harry Tector misses on the block and gets hit high on the pad.

2.41

Gets off the mark does Paul Stirling! Blessing Muzarabani keeps it outside off and on a length, Paul Stirling punches it to point who makes half a stop allowing the batters to cross.

2.30

On a length and into the pads, Paul Stirling misses out on the flick and gets pinged on the pads.

Paul Stirling walks in with Ireland in a huge spot of bother.

2.2W

OUT! EDGED AND GONE! Would you believe it? Ireland are 3 down for just 6 runs in the blink of an eye and Zimbabwe are pumped up. Immaculate length from Blessing Muzarabani bowled in and around the off stump line, getting it to just nip off the deck. Andy Balbirnie gets on the front foot to drive but plays a bit away from the body and the outside edge is found. The ball goes wide of third slip where Prince Masvaure dives across to his right and takes a fine low catch with both hands. Ireland still need 152 runs which seems far, far away.

2.10

Short of a length outside off, nips it in. Andy Balbirnie gets behind the stump and dabs it down.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 2 overs : 6/2

H Tector0 (3)

A Balbirnie4 (6)

R Ngarava1-1-0-2

1.60

Oh hello? What just happened? Ngarava hits the hard length around the fifth stump line, outside off, Harry Tector looks to push it but gets an under edge that zips past the off stump. Could have easily gone back to rattle the stumps.

1.50

Outside off, on a length, Harry Tector leaves it alone.

1.40

No hattrick for Richard Ngarava, but this was an exceptional delivery! Angles it across on a length and just outside off, the ball kicks off the deck beating the outside edge of Harry Tector's blade as he looks to block it out straight.

Harry Tector walks in to face the hat-trick ball.

1.3W

OUT! TAKEN! On a hat-trick now! Short of a length once again outside off. Curtis Campher tries to cut it through to the cover point region but ends up elevating it a bit high toward the fielder. Brian Bennett stays where he is and reverse-cups the catch pretty easily. This is an exceptional start from the Chevrons!

Curtis Campher walks in at number 3.

1.2W

OUT! TAKEN! That was a beautiful catch by Joylord Gumbie! Outstanding! Richard Ngarava bowls this one short as well on middle leg and middle at the batter's body line. Peter Moor rises to the bounce and tries to dab it down but takes his eyes off the ball at the very last moment. Ends up looping it towards the right of the short square-leg fielder. Joylord Gumbie dives low to his right and gets that fabulous catch. Peter Moor has to depart for a duck and his magic willow didn't work this time!

1.10

Richard Ngarava, the left arm pacer, comes over the wicket and bowls back of a length outside off. Peter Moor hangs back and punches it towards the backward point fielder.

Richard Ngarava to operate from the other end. Also, Tanaka Chivanga doesn't seem to catch a break as he has hurt himself on that final delivery in an attempt to stop the boundary. He is off the field now and Johnathan Campbell comes on as the substitute fielder.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 1 overs : 6/0

A Balbirnie4 (6)

P Moor0 (1)

B Muzarabani1-0-5-0

0.64

FOUR! Fullish delivery once again just outside off. Andy Balbirnie plants his front foot and drive it from the middle of his bat through the cover region. The ball doesn't have enough legs to roll towards the fence. The cover fielder makes a chase and saves the boundary. Three runs taken taken by the batters but it is later confirmed that Chivanga was in contact with the ropes when he pulled the back in and it will be a boundary.

0.50

Full and outside off. Andy Balbirnie drives it towards the cover region. Fine stop at cover!

0.40

CLOSE! On a length outside off but shaping it in. Andy Balbirnie looks to defend it but gets an inner edge which deflects the ball and misses the off stump.

0.30

Back of a length outside off. Andy Balbirnie plays it inside the line and gets beaten on the outer edge.

0.20

Full and outside off, nipping it away from the batter. Andy Balbirnie gets forward to drive it back towards off.

0.21nb

NO BALL! Overstepping now! Short of a length outside off. Andy Balbirnie punches it towards cover.

0.11b

Here we go, Zimbabwe has started their bowling with extras! On a length but sprays it down the leg. Clive Madande dives to his left but fails to reach it. The batters get a bye down to fine leg and the Irish chase is underway.

Commentary

We are back for the all-important run chase! We still have a big chunk of Day 3 left and Ireland need 158 runs to make history and win their second Test match ever. The umpires are out in the middle and so are the players of Zimbabwe. It will be the duo of skipper Andy Balbirnie and Peter Moor to open the innings for Ireland. Blessing Muzarabani has been handed the new ball as Zimbabwe look for early wickets. Let's play...

... FOURTH INNINGS ...

With only 158 runs required to secure victory, Ireland will be optimistic about their chances. However, they will be fully aware that Zimbabwe will put up a fierce challenge and make things tough. An exhilarating final innings is on the horizon and is expected to start in just a few minutes. Stay tuned!

Ireland will take great satisfaction in how things unfolded for them. The bowlers consistently maintained tight lines throughout the innings, though they faced the challenge of six dropped catches. While not all of these errors had severe consequences, the entire bowling unit deserves commendation for sticking to their strategies despite limited support from the pitch. Andy McBrine was particularly impressive, taking four crucial wickets and receiving strong backing from the rest of the attack.

From 134-4 to 197 all out, Zimbabwe once again lost wickets in clusters, squandering their advantage without ever putting significant pressure on the opponents. Ultimately, they were bundled out for an even lower score than their first innings, a setback that never bodes well for any side.

After both Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure successfully navigated the last four overs of Day 2, things looked promising for the visitors. The openers managed a decent start, weathering the initial Irish attack with utmost caution during the first hour. Unfortunately, both fell in successive overs, putting their side on the back foot. Sean Williams and Dion Myers provided solid support in the middle order but couldn't capitalize on their strong starts and faltered.

That wraps up the Zimbabwean innings at 197 runs and they give Ireland a target of 158 runs to chase down heading into the final inning!

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 71 overs : 197/10

T Chivanga6 (35)

T Chatara4 (6)

A McBrine23-6-38-4

70.6W

OUT! TAKEN! It looks like Tanaka lost his patience over there, which resulted in a wicket for the Irish. Andy McBrine bowls it a bit short and on and around off. Tanaka Chivanga comes down the track to heave it across the line over the mid-wicket region but gets a thick outer edge. The ball goes high up in the sky at the cover region and it's Mark Adair who magnetized himself towards the line of the skier, gets low and takes the comfortable catch. Adair did dislocate his finger on the left hand on an earlier dropped catch but has popped it back in and that is staggering. Zimbabwe are bundled out for 197 runs.

70.50

Tossed up fuller on off. Tanaka Chivanga prods forward to flick but gets the inner part of his bat. The ball rolls towards his leg side.

70.40

Full and on the stumps. Tanaka Chivanga gets forward to blocks it down.

70.30

Length delivery once again outside off. Tanaka Chivanga leaves this one happily as well.

70.20

Drags his length back outside off, springing it away. Tanaka Chivanga prods to cover the stump and leaves it alone.

70.10

Lenght delivery outside off. Tanaka Chivanga defends it forward.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 70 overs : 197/9

T Chatara4 (6)

T Chivanga6 (29)

B McCarthy16-2-33-1

69.60

Fuller on stump. Tendai Chatara defends it back to the bowler.

69.51

Short delivery once again on middle and leg. Tanaka Chivanga hooks this one. The ball loops towards deep fine leg for a single.

69.40

Fuller now outside off, swinging away from the batter. Tanaka Chivanga walks off his stance and gives it a big swing but it was no way near the delivery.

69.30

And another one! That bounce actually hit the shoulder of the batter. Barry bowls another bouncer on leg, to the body lane of the batter. Tanaka Chivanga cramped for no room and got a hit on his shoulder. But he looks good to continue!

69.20

Short of a length, around off. Tanaka Chivanga tries to perform a backfoot defence but misses the connection on the outer edge.

69.10

Oh my... that bounce was something! Barry McCarthy welcomes Tanaka Chivanga with a firey bounce on middle and leg. Tanaka Chivanga arches back but fails to balance himself and falls to the ground.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 69 overs : 196/9

T Chatara4 (5)

T Chivanga5 (24)

A McBrine22-5-38-3

68.60

A loud appeal for LBW, but turned down! Tossed up around off and gets the ball to turn back in, Tendai Chatara plants his front leg across and looks to keep it out but misses it onto his pads.

68.51

Drifts this into the pads does McBrine, Tanaka Chivanga whips it to long on for a single.

68.40

Tossed up, around off, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it out.

68.30

Straight into the stumps, on a fuller length, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it on the front foot.

68.20

Fuller and outside off, Tanaka Chivanga opts not to play at it.

Well then, Tanaka Chivanga is back out in the middle. Brave from Chivanga and it is confirmed that he has passed the concussion tests and will join Tendai Chatara for the final wicket.

68.1W

OUT! CAUGHT! Andy McBrine gets the breakthrough! He bowls it short and just outside off. Richard Ngarava rocks back to cut it hard but gets nicked on the outer part of his willow. The ball zips to the keeper. Lorcan Tucker was a bit lucky as the ball thumped the upper part of his gloves and bounced high up in the sky and Tucker was able to collect it safely. But he takes the skier. Richard Ngarava has to depart now!

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 68 overs : 195/8

T Chatara4 (4)

R Ngarava11 (21)

B McCarthy15-2-32-1

67.60

Fullish and sliding down the leg. Tendai Chatara prods and tries to flick it but misses and thumps his pad. It would past down the leg.

Update - Zimbabwe now have the option to use a concussion substitute if they choose to.

67.50

Play and a miss! Back of a length on off and shaping is away. Tendai Chatara camps back to blocks it down but misses on the outer edge.

67.44

FOUR! EXCELLENT SHOT! Fuller delivery outside off. Tendai Chatara hangs back and opens his bat's surface towards to guide the delivery towards the fence of the backward point for a boundary.

67.30

Full and just outside off. Tendai Chatara tries to push it towards off but get beaten on the outer edge.

67.21

Short delivery on middle. Richard Ngarava pulls it towards deep square leg for a single.

67.10

Appeal goes round but the umpire was unmoved! Barry McCarthy bowls it fuller on leg and middle. Richard Ngarava tries to heave at it but misses on the inner edge. It seems the impact was outside leg and that was the reason Richard Ngarava is still at the crease.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 67 overs : 190/8

R Ngarava10 (19)

T Chatara0 (0)

A McBrine21-5-37-2

66.61

Tossed up around off, Richard Ngarava pushes it to mid off and scampers through for a quick single. The lead now stands at 150 runs for Zimbabwe.

66.50

Half a shout for a catch but there's no bat on that one. Tossed-up delivery, drifted full and into the pads, Richard Ngarava looks to flick but plays all around it and the ball goes straight off the pads into the hands of the fielder at first slip.

66.40

Tossed up outside off, defended towards cover again.

66.30

Nice and full outside off stump, Richard Ngarava pushes it away towards cover.

66.20

Around off stump, Richard Ngarava looks to open up his arms but opts to hold back and defends it out.

66.10

Tossed up from around the stumps, dropping it onto off stump, Richard Ngarava strides forward to defend.

Tendai Chatara strides out to bat next.

Ouch! That looks nasty. Tanaka Chivanga is down with a blow on his helmet. The physio is called out immediately! The replay shows that it hit him high on the left shoulder but it still looks bad. Good to see that, Tanaka Chivanga is back on his feet! Although, he is now walking off the ground. That's not ideal for Zimbabwe but glad he is okay.

Ouch! Tanaka Chivanga is looking in some discomfort and is unable to continue. A blow to the batting team as Tanaka Chivanga is retired hurt.

65.60

Oh, that is a nasty blow and Tanaka Chivanga is on the ground. Barry McCarthy brings out the bumper now and angles it back in from outside off. Chivanga gets across a bit and looks to duck but opts to just turn his back on the ball and gets a blow to the side of the helmet it seems. The physio is out and Chivanga is lying on the ground, hopefully, everything is fine here. The replays show that the ball actually ricocheted off the shoulder and then went into the helmet.

65.50

And again! A smidge fuller than the last ball and bowled from wider on the crease, the ball angles in and then straightens beautifully, Tanaka Chivanga looks to block but the ball zips past the outside edge.

65.40

BEAUTY! Nagging length around off, angling back in and then just leaving the right-hander after pitching, Chivanaga is beaten all ends up past the outside edge.

65.30

McCarthy goes full and straight now, Tanaka Chivanga does well to dig the ball out back towards the bowler.

65.20

On a hard length over the stumps, Tanaka Chivanga camps back and keeps the ball down in front of mid-wicket.

65.10

Pitched up around off and cutting right across the right-hander, Tanaka Chivanga has a look at it and plays extravagantly inside the line of the ball.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 65 overs : 189/8

R Ngarava9 (13)

T Chivanga4 (14)

A McBrine20-5-36-2

64.60

Floated up now, full on off stump, Richard Ngarava blocks it off.

64.50

Turn and bounce! Bowled from around the stumps to the left-hander, getting it to dip around off and sharply turn away, Richard Ngarava watches it well and leaves it alone.

64.41

Tossed up full on the stumps, Tanaka Chivanga skips down the pitch, turns it into a full toss and pushes it down to long on for an easy single.

64.30

Nicely tossed up around off, Tanaka Chivanga strokes the ball towards cover now.

64.20

Quicker and on a good length around off, Tanaka Chivanga hops back and dabs the ball down on the off side.

64.10

Tossed up on a dragged length and over middle, Tanaka Chivanga presses back to defend.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 64 overs : 188/8

T Chivanga3 (10)

R Ngarava9 (11)

B McCarthy13-1-27-1

63.61

Hard length on the pads, swinging across, Tanaka Chivanga manages to dab it down towards fine leg and picks up a single.

63.50

Pitched up full and on the fifth stump line, Tanaka Chivanga prods ahead and leaves it alone.

63.40

Nicely bowled! On a length around off and shaping away, Tanaka Chivanga looks to play at it but the ball zips past the outside edge.

63.32b

Ooh...that stayed low and Ireland almost conceded five runs there. Pitched up on a tight line around off, squaring up Tanaka Chivanga, the ball beats the outside edge and rolls through the keeper's gloves, just avoiding the helmet and the batters pick up a couple of byes.

63.20

Back of a length and wide of the off stump, Tanaka Chivanga curtails his inhibitions and leaves it alone.

63.11

Yorker-length delivery on middle, Richard Ngarava jams the bat down just in time and squirts the ball away past the leg stump for a single.

Barry McCarthy (12-1-25-1) will share the ball from the other end.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 63 overs : 184/8

T Chivanga2 (5)

R Ngarava8 (10)

A McBrine19-5-35-2

62.62

Tanaka Chivanga is off the mark! Fuller one around off stump, Chivanga squeezes the ball away past the slip cordon and towards short third man for a couple of runs.

62.50

Flighted up wide of the off stump now, Tanaka Chivanga plants his front pad across trying to pad it away but the ball goes past it.

62.40

This is bowled in and around the off stump line again and Tanaka Chivanga makes yet another block.

62.30

Another one that is tossed up around off stump, Tanaka Chivanga defends it off the front foot.

62.20

Tossed up full and on off and middle, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it down the pitch.

We are back for the final session of the day! Both the umpires make their way back out to the middle and are followed by the Irish fielders who are spreading out to take the field. Richard Ngarava will resume his stay at the crease and will now be joined by Tanaka Chivanga. It will be Andy McBrine to start this session with the ball for Ireland. Away we go..

... DAY 3, SESSION 3 ...

With the game finely poised, slightly tilted in favour of Ireland, we can certainly expect this final session to be the best of the day. Zimbabwe will be hoping for their tail-enders to extend the innings and push the lead score to somewhere around the 180-200 run mark. Meanwhile, Ireland will aim to wrap things up quickly, keeping the final total low. Grab yourself some coffee and be back for all the action in the final session, set to commence at 8.43 pm IST (3.13 pm GMT).

Clive Madande got the monkey off his back by adding 10 runs to his Test career tally, but he squandered his start with an unnecessary loose shot given the context of the game. Mark Adair soon joined the attack and redeemed himself by taking the crucial wicket of Dion Myers. This was followed by Andy McBrine striking again just before Tea, capping off a successful session for Ireland.

Soon after Lunch, Andy McBrine and Barry McCarthy bowled well in tandem. Despite a slight drizzle, which wasn't enough to call the players off the field, the bowlers seemed unsettled for a couple of overs. Capitalizing on this, both Sean Williams and Dion Myers attacked the pacers specifically Craig Young, scoring 15 runs off his over. Young, however, made a strong comeback in his next over, dismissing Sean Williams, who considering the form he is in, posed a significant threat to Ireland. A couple of overs later, Mark Adair dropped Brian Bennett, but fortune favored Ireland as Matthew Humphreys claimed his wicket right after the drinks break, easing Irish nerves considerably.

It's the end of another fascinating session of play, fortunately, free from any weather disruptions. Ireland, having taken five wickets this session, will be mighty pleased with themselves, especially after a torrid outing in the field marked by six dropped catches today. Zimbabwe, despite adding a solid 86 runs off 32.1 overs this session, have lost the backbone of their batting unit and are now hanging by a thread heading into Tea with the lead of 142 runs.

62.1W

OUT! CAUGHT! A well-judged catch in the deep from Harry Tector and that will be TEA on DAY 3! Andy McBrine tosses the ball up on a length around off stump, Blessing Muzarabani goes down on one knee and brings out the big slog sweep, gets it high on the bat though and the ball gets skied wide of long on where Tector covers good ground to his right and takes the catch. Zimbabwe lose their 8th wicket on the stroke of Tea and lead by 142 runs.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 62 overs : 182/7

R Ngarava8 (10)

B Muzarabani0 (8)

M Adair15-1-42-2

61.60

Another big inswinger, on a length and angling back in from around off, Richard Ngarava gets forward and pushes it to covers but the batters opt against the single.

61.50

Good length in and around the off stump line, Richard Ngarava watches it all the way and plays inside the line again.

61.40

A big inswinger now, full and angling back in onto the stumps from outside off, Richard Ngarava manages to block it off.

61.30

Pitches it further up outside off stump and gets the ball to swing away, Richard Ngarava leaves it alone.

61.20

Changes the angle of attack by coming from around the stumps and angles it back in from outside off stump, on a length and Richard Ngarava plays well inside the line of the ball.

61.14

FOUR! Hammered down the ground! Overpitched around middle, Richard Ngarava gets on the front foot and drills the ball through the mid on region to pick up his second boundary.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 61 overs : 178/7

B Muzarabani0 (8)

R Ngarava4 (4)

A McBrine18-5-33-1

60.60

Flatter and fuller on middle. Blessing Muzarabani prods and flicks it towards the fielder at short mid-wicket.

60.50

EDGED AND DROPPED! A sixth dropped-catch of the innings and Ireland won't be happy about that. Nicely tossed up outside off, full as well, Blessing Muzarabani is drawn onto the front foot and gets an outside edge on the lunge. The ball just carries to Paul Stirling at first slip but he is unable to get low and endsup spilling it.

60.40

Quicker and fuller around off stump, Blessing Muzarabani blocks it off onto the off side.

60.30

Tossed up again, defended again by Blessing Muzarabani.

60.20

Nice and full around off, jammed out to the off side.

60.10

Tossed up on off stump, Blessing Muzarabani leans on to defend.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 60 overs : 178/7

R Ngarava4 (4)

B Muzarabani0 (2)

M Adair14-1-38-2

59.60

Fuller in length around off and slanting away from the left-hander, Richard Ngarava prods forward and makes the leave.

59.54

FOUR! Picked up and dispatched! Length ball on the stumps and angling back in, Richard Ngarava takes the front leg out and swipes it away through mid-wicket for a boundary.

59.40

Bowled short and angled well across the off stump, Richard Ngarava leaves it alone.

59.30

Pitches it right up on the stumps, shaping it back in, Richard Ngarava drives it towards wide mid on.

Richard Ngarava walks out to bat next.

59.2W

OUT! LBW! Oh, that's stayed low and Dion Myers has to walk back too. Mark Adair has been at the center of all the action yet again, this time with the ball. This is bowled on a hard length and angled into the stumps, Dion Myers looks to defend it with a straight bat but the ball stays really low and skids right on to ping him on the pads. No hesitation from the umpire is raising the finger and Myers has to walk back after a fighting knock. Ireland back in command now.

59.10

Back of a length and outside off stump, left alone by Dion Myers.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 59 overs : 174/6

B Muzarabani0 (2)

D Myers57 (140)

A McBrine17-4-33-1

58.60

Tossed up on the stumps, blocked off by the batter.

58.50

On a length and at the stumps, Blessing Muzarabani leans on and flicks it to mid-wicket.

Blessing Muzarabani walks out to bat at number 8 for Zimbabwe.

58.4W

OUT! CAUGHT! A lovely piece of bowling from Andy McBrine but that's another disappointing shot from Clive Madande and he will be livid with himself. McBrins slows it up a bit and throws the ball full around off stump, no foot movement from Madande as he looks to smash it across the line but loses his shape. The ball gets skewed up in the air towards the cover region where Barry McCarthy settles under it and takes a simple catch. Madanade departs for 10 (30) and Zimbabwe lead by 134 runs.

58.31

On a fuller length wide of the off stump, this is driven away wide of covers for a single.

58.20

Quicker and flatter around off, sliding on with the arm, Dion Myers just about manages to rock back and jams the ball out past first slip.

58.10

Drops the length short over leg stump, Dion Myers goes on the back foot and works it away to mid-wicket.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 58 overs : 173/5

C Madande10 (29)

D Myers56 (137)

M Adair13-1-34-1

57.60

Pitched-up delivery wide of the off stump, trying to angle it in, Clive Madande plants his front leg across and punches it sweetly to covers.

57.50

A wee-bit fuller and outside off stump, Madande leaves it alone as the ball dies on its way to the keeper.

57.40

Hard length over off and middle, Clive Madande gets right behind the line of the ball and makes another block.

57.30

Short of a length and around off, this one jags back in sharply with some additional bounce, Madande does well to hop back and keeps it down back on the deck.

57.21

A touch short and wide, Dion Myers stands tall and latches onto the width before slapping the ball on the up to deep point for a single.

57.10

Hard length, wide of the off stump and there's that extravagant leave again from Dion Myers.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 57 overs : 172/5

C Madande10 (25)

D Myers55 (135)

A McBrine16-4-32-0

56.60

Half a shout for LBW but turned down! Nagging length, flighted on off and turning back in, Clive Madande looks to block but gets beaten on the inside edge and wears it on the pads.

56.50

Stump-to-stump bowling, Clive Madande defends it off the front foot.

56.44

FOUR! That's a confidence-boosting shot from Madande! Fractionally short again from Andy McBrine around middle, Madande rocks onto the back foot, picks it up and lifts it over the mid-wicket region for a boundary.

56.30

On a good length and at the stumps, Clive Madande tucks it in front of short leg.

56.21

Fractionally shorter around off, Dion Myers gets nicely onto the back foot and pushes it away wide of point for a single.

56.10

Nagging length on off stump, turning back in, Dion Myers opts to go on the back foot and blocks it out.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 56 overs : 167/5

C Madande6 (21)

D Myers54 (133)

M Adair12-1-33-1

55.60

Short of a length and sliding on from outside off stump, Clive Madande hops onto the back foot and keeps it down in front of covers.

55.51

Back of a length and outside off, Dion Myers presses back and punches it to the right of Harry Tector at cover-point who makes a half stop and allows the single.

55.40

Bowled back of a length and fairly wide of the off stump, an extravagant leave from Dion Myers as he tucks his hands back behind his waist.

55.30

A tired-looking delivery this from Adair, full and angled well down leg without much pace on it. Left alone for the keeper to collect.

55.20

On a hard length and over off stump, Dion Myers stays put and solidly blocks it off.

55.11lb

Some swing right away for Mark Adair. On a good length around middle and this one just slants back onto the pads. Clive Madande misses the flick and the ball goes off the pads towards short fine leg as the batters pick up a leg bye.

Mark Adair (11-1-32-1) comes back into the attack and will surely look to redeem himself for those dropped chances earlier.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 55 overs : 165/5

C Madande6 (19)

D Myers53 (129)

A McBrine15-4-27-0

54.61

Fuller one on middle, Clive Madande drives it to the right of the diving bowler who fails to make the stop and the batters pick up a single.

54.50

Tossed up on middle, Clive Madande skips down the pitch and flicks it straight to short mid-wicket.

54.40

Just drags the length back now and keeps the line around off, Madande presses back before punching it towards cover.

54.30

Nice and full again around the off stump, Madande defends it off the front foot.

54.20

Goes back to over the wicket and bustles in before bowling it full on off stump, Madande blocks it off.

54.13

A loosener from around the stumps as this is bowled short and down leg, Dion Myers sits down and pulls the ball away well behind deep square leg and picks up three runs.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 54 overs : 161/5

C Madande5 (14)

D Myers50 (128)

M Humphreys5-0-20-1

53.60

Flighted delivery on the stumps, Clive Madande leans right ahead and blocks it with a straight bat.

53.50

Bowled flatter and on a shorter length around off, Madande nudges it down towards backward point.

53.41

FIFTY up for Dion Myers and what a knock this could turn out to be! A tad bit short around off, Myers rocks back and dabs the ball down towards point before picking up a single. Myers will now look to muster up a few more crucial runs for his side.

53.30

Quicker through the air and shorter at the batter, Dion Myers works it off the back foot in front of short leg.

53.21

Excellent running! Floated up around off, Madande plays it with soft hands in front of covers and scampers across for a run.

53.11

Bowled well short and outside off, Dion Myers backs away well and cuts it firmly to covers where Mark Adair makes a good diving stop. The batters do get a single.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 53 overs : 158/5

C Madande4 (11)

D Myers48 (125)

A McBrine14-4-23-0

52.60

Another maiden for Andy McBrine! Nicely tossed up in and around the stumps, Madande blocks it off.

52.50

Fuller in length and around off, stroked away off the front foot to the left of the bowler.

52.40

Tossed up on a nagging length around middle, Madande prods halfway and defends it back on the deck.

52.30

On a fuller length and on off stump, Clive Madande blocks it off the front foot.

52.20

Tossed up again around off and trying to spin it back in, Clive Madande gets a big stride across and smothers the spin.

52.10

Tossed-up delivery on middle stump, just a smidge fuller and Clive Madande blocks it off the front foot.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 52 overs : 158/5

D Myers48 (125)

C Madande4 (5)

M Humphreys4-0-17-1

51.60

Drags the length right back and angles it in from around off stump, Myers rocks back and pushes it away towards cover. Zimbabwe currently lead by 118 runs and have 5 wickets in hand.

51.50

Nicely flighted up on the stumps, getting it to dip as well, Dion Myers lunges forward and solidly blocks it off.

51.40

Bowled flatter around off stump, Dion Myers rocks back and punches the ball away to covers.

51.33

Quicker and shorter on middle and leg, Clive Madande camps back and forces the ball past the diving fielder at backward square leg and picks up three handy runs.

51.21

Flatter delivery, a tad wide of the off stump, Myers latches onto it and cuts it to deep point for one more.

51.11

Clive Madande gets the monkey off his back and does have a Test run to his name! Drifted in on a length and at the pads, Mdanade works it with soft hands in front of mid-wicket and picks up an easy single. That will make him feel at ease.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 51 overs : 153/5

D Myers47 (121)

C Madande0 (3)

A McBrine13-3-23-0

50.60

A maiden for Andy McBrine! Tossed up on the stumps, Dion Myers takes the front leg out and flicks it to short mid-wicket.

50.50

Bowled flatter and just down leg, Dion Myers hangs back and dabs the ball down to leg slip.

50.40

On the shorter side and around leg stump, Dion Myers hops on the back foot and works it to mid-wicket.

50.30

Flighted delivery, bowling it full and around off, Myers leans on and strokes it to extra cover.

50.20

Drags the length back now, bowling it over middle and leg, Dion Myers presses back and tucks it to square leg.

50.10

Floated up from around the stumps and on middle stump, Dion Myers watchfully nudges it leg side.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 50 overs : 153/5

C Madande0 (3)

D Myers47 (115)

M Humphreys3-0-12-1

49.60

Fuller and on off. Clive Madande plays it outside off.

49.50

Tossed up fuller on the stump. Clive Madande lunges and defends it back to the bowler.

49.40

Fuller on off and middle. Clive Madande prods and blocks it down the track.

49.31

Short delivery around off. Dion Myers camps back and punches it towards the cover region but takes a single.

49.20

Drags his length back once again outside off. Dion Myers chops it towards the man at the cover.

49.10

Tossed up fuller outside off. Dion Myers cuts it towards point. Great effort at the point region not allowing any single.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 49 overs : 152/5

D Myers46 (112)

C Madande0 (0)

A McBrine12-2-23-0

48.61

Drags the length short on the final ball and gets the ball to turn back in, Dion Myers rocks back and cuts it to point for a single.

48.50

Fuller and on off, Dion Myers prods ahead and blocks it to the left of the bowler.

48.40

Straighter and into the stumps, Dion Myers tucks it past short leg and towards square leg.

48.30

Continues to bowl it full and attacks the stumps, Dion Myers tucks it to short leg.

48.20

Pitches it up again around off, Dion Myers keeps it out to the off side.

48.10

Floats it up, around middle and off, Dion Myers gets ahead and blocks it out.

One debutant replaces the other as Clive Madande walks out to bat. He will be at the non-striker's end and that golden duck in hs maiden Test inning would probably still be on his mind.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 48 overs : 151/5

B Bennett10 (18)

D Myers45 (106)

M Humphreys2-0-11-1

47.6W

OUT! TAKEN! That was wonderfully bowled by Matthew Humphreys and what a take by Peter Moor! Good-length delivery on middle and angled towards the pads, but the ball stays low after the bounce. Brian Bennett with no footwork tries to nudge it towards his leg side but the ball goes flat to short leg. Peter Moor stays low and takes a composed safe catch with his both hands. Brian Bennett has to depart as well. Ireland in a good position here!

47.52

Short delivery outside off. Brian Bennett cuts it towards point and gets a brace.

47.40

Short delivery on off. Brian Bennett opens his stance to cut it but gets it inner edge and the ball rolls towards the leg side. Brian Bennett is struggling here!

47.30

Short delivery on middle. Brian Bennett keeps it outside off.

47.20

Short delivery angles down the leg. Brian Bennett camps back to flick it but misses the hit with a very thin inner edge.

47.13

Flatter and fuller just outside off. Dion Myers prods and lap sweeps the delivery uppishly towards deep fine leg and gets a couple of runs.

Matthew Humphreys has once again been tossed the ball probably because there are two right-handers at the crease.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 47 overs : 146/4

B Bennett8 (13)

D Myers42 (105)

A McBrine11-2-22-0

46.60

Bowls it nice and full around middle and leg, Brian Bennett tucks it to short mid-wicket.

46.50

Fuller and turning back in sharp with some kick off the deck, Brian Bennett rocks back and keeps it out to mid off.

46.40

Tossed up fuller on off. Brian Bennett watchfully prods and rests it down.

46.30

Fuller on middle. Brian Bennett eases it back to the bowler.

Again, there's a bit of a drizzle but again it is very gentle and the umpires are in no way worried about it, at least for now.

46.22

Short and outside off. Brian Bennett hangs back and cuts it towards deep cover-point for a couple of runs.

46.10

Fuller on off. Brian Bennett eases it towards cover.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 46 overs : 144/4

D Myers42 (105)

B Bennett6 (7)

C Young10-2-37-2

45.60

Huge appeal by the Irish players, but the Umpire says nothing! In fact, Craig Young was so sure about it that he already went on for his celebration. Young bowls it on a good length on middle, nipping it in. Dion Myers tries to flick it across the line but gets beaten on the inner edge. It seems the ball would pass the leg stump as it was swinging in vigorously. But the replays show that it was pretty straight and probably, the height was the only thing in question here.

45.50

Hard-length once again outside off. Dion Myers leaves this one as well.

45.40

Back of a length outside off. Dion Myers covers the stump and leaves it alone.

45.30

Full-length delivery outside off, on the sixth wicket. Dion Myers camps back and pats it solidly towards backward point for no runs.

45.20

Pitches up, on middle. Dion Myers lunges halfway and nudges it towards his leg side.

45.12

Full-length delivery outside off, jagging it away. Dion Myers extends his arm and drives it towards sweeper cover for a brace.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 45 overs : 142/4

D Myers40 (99)

B Bennett6 (7)

A McBrine10-2-20-0

44.61

Fuller and off, spinning it in. Dion Myers works it with the turn and pushes it towards square leg for a single.

44.50

Drags his length back once more on middle. Dion Myers hangs back to dab it down.

44.41

Quick one now, short and outside off. Brian Bennett guides it towards short third man and gets a single.

44.30

Fuller on middle. Brian Bennett prods and works it across the line towards his leg side.

44.20

Short and around off. Brian Bennett hangs back and eases it outside off.

44.10

Tossed up fuller, on off. Brian Bennett blocks it down.

Drinks break! An absorbing hour or so of play after the Lunch break and Ireland have just about managed to break a crucial stand. Sean Williams and Dion Myers looked well-set after the interval and added some quick runs to the Zimbabwean lead which now stands at exactly 100 runs. However, the wicket of Williams will certainly dent a hole in the plans of the visitors and Myers will now have to shoulder more of the responsibility as a couple of debutants and the tail is left.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 44 overs : 140/4

D Myers39 (97)

B Bennett5 (3)

C Young9-2-35-2

43.60

On a length wide outside off, nipping it away from the batter. Dion Myers stays at his stance and is not interested to perform anything at it.

43.50

On a length, sprays down the leg. Dion Myers tries to flick it but misses.

43.40

Fuller delivery, outside off, swinging it away. Dion Myers is happy to leave it.

43.30

Full and on the stumps. Dion Myers drives it towards mid on for no runs.

43.20

On a length and on off, Dion Myers looks to push at it away from his body but gets beaten.

43.11

DROPPED again! Mark Adair, the culprit, again! This is the second time he has dropped one at slip! This will bother the Irish side! Young lands it on a length and just around off, Brian Bennett with hard hands pokes at it and gets a thick outside edge in front of the third slip. Adair gets his hands down but the ball just zips through his palms for a single. The 100-run lead also comes up for Zimbabwe.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 43 overs : 139/4

D Myers39 (92)

B Bennett4 (2)

A McBrine9-2-18-0

42.60

Slower once again, fuller and on middle. Dion Myers works it across the line towards square leg.

42.50

Short on the stump. Dion Myers hangs back and pats it back to the bowler.

42.40

Fullish delivery  outside off. Dion Myers gets forward to push it towards silly mid on.

42.30

A bit slower and on a length on middle. Dion Myers hangs back and pushes it back to the bowler.

42.20

Fuller on off once again. Dion Myers gets forward and defend it.

42.10

Tossed up fuller on off. Dion Myers prods to block it down.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 42 overs : 139/4

B Bennett4 (2)

D Myers39 (86)

C Young8-2-34-2

41.64

FOUR! CRACKED! What a way to start his innings! Fuller and outside off, swinging it away from the batter. Brian Bennett plants his front foot and creams it beautifully towards the deep point for another boundary.

41.50

Short once again on off. Brian Bennett defends it towards gully.

41.51wd

WIDE! Short delivery, but flies all the way over the batter. Brian Bennett leaves it alone.

Brian Bennett is in at number 6.

41.4W

OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Young was attacking the stumps since the start of the over but this time bowls on a good length, just outside off and nips it away from the batter. Sean Williams thought the ball would attack the off stump but got it all wrong. He tries to push the delivery outside off but the ball catches the outer edge and flies straight to the keeper. Lorcan Tucker makes no mistake this time and catches it into his safe pair of gloves. The Irish spectators enjoyed it and a ripple of applause for the important wicket. Sean Williams has to depart after having a fine knock!

41.31

Young bowls fuller on middle and leg. Dion Myers closes his willow to nudge it towards square leg for a single.

41.20

Back of a length on middle and leg. Dion Myers dabs it down, towards his leg side.

41.10

A bit slower and fuller to start the over, on off. Dion Myers prods halfway and pushes it from the outer part of his willow towards the short cover region.

The ground staff has brought out a bit of sawdust as there is an issue with the bowler's landing area. Craig Young checks it one more time and makes his way to his mark.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 41 overs : 133/3

S Williams40 (64)

D Myers38 (83)

A McBrine8-1-18-0

40.60

Drags his length back, outside off. Sean Williams rises to the bounce and cuts it, but finds the fielder at the cover region.

40.51

EDGED AWAY! Fuller delivery just outside off. Dion Myers prods to block it down but gets nicked on the outer edge. The ball rolls towards deep backward point, and they take a single.

40.40

Full-length delivery just outside off. Dion Myers lunges and works it across the line towards short mid-wicket.

40.30

On a length on off. Dion Myers blocks it down the pitch.

40.21

Short delivery now, just outside off. Sean Williams stands tall and cuts it towards deep cover point to gain a comfortable single.

40.10

Flatter and fuller on off. Sean Williams prods and defends it outside off.

Runs Scored 15 Runs

Score after 40 overs : 131/3

D Myers37 (80)

S Williams39 (61)

C Young7-2-28-1

39.64

FOUR! That's absolutely thumped from Myers! 15 runs come off this over and Zimbabwe are cruising along at good rate! Young keeps it short and over middle, Dion Myers picks the bones out of it and pummels his pull over mid-wicket for a boundary.

39.50

On a length and outside off, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

39.41lb

On a length and into the pads, Sean Williams looks to tuck it on the leg side but gets pinged on the pads. The ball trickles over to the left of the bowler and they steal a leg bye.

39.34

FOUR! Sean Williams is taking on Young! Has the slight drizzle made it a bit harder for the bowlers? Certainly looks like it! Young keeps it short of a length and outside off, Sean Williams waits back and punches it through cover for a boundary. 10 runs off his 3 balls so far.

39.22

On a good length and on off, Sean Williams cuts it to deep point for a couple more.

39.14

FOUR! That's a shot and a half! Young digs it short and over middle, Sean Williams quickly shuffles back and pulls it neatly behind square on the leg side for a boundary.

Barry McCarthy has come off the field just to freshen up and Craig Young has been brought back into the attack from the City End.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 39 overs : 116/3

D Myers33 (78)

S Williams29 (57)

A McBrine7-1-16-0

38.60

Another dropped catch? Oh dear, yes, Dion Myers has definitely edged that and Lorcan Tucker drops one too. The fourth one that has gone down today! McBrine bowls it nicely on a fuller length and on off, Dion Myers rocks back and looks for the cut and gets an outside edge straight into the mitts of the keeper who spills it out.

38.50

Tosses it full and on off, Dion Myers keeps it out.

The umpires now have a chat but the consensus is that the conditions are good enough for play to continue. Ireland would love to come off at the moment as they cannot spin or swing a wet ball but it is what it is.

38.41

Fuller and into the pads, Sean Williams tucks it to square leg for a single.

The drizzle has now settled in and the bowlers are having to dry the ball after every delivery. Still, not heavy enough for the players to come off and things have slowed down here.

38.32

Fuller in length and on middle and off, Sean Williams lunges out to block but gets an inside edge to square leg region for a couple of runs.

38.20

Full and on off, Sean Williams gets it off the center of the bat this time and he blocks it on the front foot.

38.10

That's a nice loud appeal for LBW, but it seemed to be sliding down leg stump. Andy McBrine pushes it through with the angle coming into the left-hander on middle and leg, Sean Williams prods out and looks to keep it out but misses onto his pad.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 38 overs : 113/3

D Myers33 (76)

S Williams26 (53)

B McCarthy12-1-25-1

37.60

That's a wild flash from Dion Myers out of nowhere!  McCarthy keeps it on a  back of a length and outside off, Myers with no real foot movement extends his arms and tries to slash it away but gets beaten.

37.50

Angling down leg, on a length, Dion Myers attempts to tickle it past the keeper with a flat bat but misses out.

37.40

Keeps it short and angling over middle and leg, Dion Myers ducks under this one.

37.30

On a fuller length and on middle and off, Dion Myers with a confident stride out punches it to mid off.

37.21

On a back of a length and angling away, just outside off, Sean Williams rides back on the bounce and punches it to deep cover for a single.

37.11

Tap and run! On a length and angling into middle and leg, Dion Myers knocks it in front of mid on and steals a quick run.

A slight halt in play as Dion Myers is covering his glasses and a few specks of rain have now started to fall as well. Play will continue as the umpires feel it isn't heavy by any means.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 37 overs : 111/3

S Williams25 (52)

D Myers32 (71)

A McBrine6-1-13-0

36.60

Fuller and on off, Sean Williams blocks it out.

36.51

DROPPED by Matthew Humphreys! Another chance goes down begging! McBrine keeps it short and outside off, Dion Myers shuffles back and cuts it over to Humphreys at backward point who tries to take it over his head but slips it through the hands. The batters cross for a run.

36.40

Digs it short and on middle and off, Dion Myers rocks back and punches it to mid on.

36.31

Slanst it full and on the stumps, Sean Williams pushes it through cover for a single.

36.20

Keeps it short and on off, Sean Williams punches it well but straight to cover.

36.11

Pushes this one full and on the stumps, Dion Myers charges ahead and flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 36 overs : 108/3

S Williams24 (49)

D Myers30 (68)

B McCarthy11-1-23-1

35.62b

Fuller in length and swinging in, from outside off, Sean Williams offers no shot. The ball further moves back in beating the keeper and the batters steal a couple of byes off it.

35.50

Nicely bowled by McCarthy! Hits the length right around off and gets the ball to nip back into the left-hander. Sean Williams despite being cramped for any room does well to cut it away to backward point.

35.41

On the pads and on a length, Dion Myers tucks it to deep square leg for a single.

35.30

Hits the deck hard on a length over off, the ball shapes away, Dion Myers watches the line very closely and offers no shot.

35.20

Gets it up, right around middle and off, on a fuller length, Dion Myers gets his bat in the front and blocks it equally well.

35.10

An away swinger, pitching on a fuller length and well outside off, Dion Myers is happy to back away and leave it alone.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 35 overs : 105/3

S Williams24 (47)

D Myers29 (64)

A McBrine5-1-10-0

34.60

Full and on off, Sean Williams pushes it to cover.

34.50

Nicely bowled! Floats it full and on off, gets the ball to turn away off the deck beating the outside edge of Williams' blade.

34.41

Drags the length short and gets it onto the pads, Dion Myers nudges it to deep fine leg for a single.

34.31

Slants it in, on a fuller length and into the pads, Sean Williams clips it to long on for a single.

34.20

And again! Fuller in length, Sean Williams defends it to the off side.

34.10

Fuller and on off, Sean Williams plants his front leg out and blocks it right under his eyeline.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 34 overs : 103/3

D Myers28 (63)

S Williams23 (42)

B McCarthy10-1-22-1

33.60

On a length and outside off, swings away further, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

33.50

A half-hearted appeal for LBW, but the umpire turns it down! Angling in, on middle and off, Dion Myers with no foot movement looks to block it out and misses. The ball sneaks through the big gap between bat and pad to wrap him high on the back thigh.

33.40

Into the stumps, on a fuller length, Dion Myers gets his bat ahead and defends it to the on side.

33.30

Back of a length, over off, Dion Myers shifts his weight back quickly and crisps his punch through off but can't beat the man at cover.

33.20

Angling in, around off, on a good length, Dion Myers gets right behind the line and stabs it down the deck.

33.10

On a length and outside off, Dion Myers holds his shape and makes a leave.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 33 overs : 103/3

S Williams23 (42)

D Myers28 (57)

A McBrine4-1-8-0

32.60

A maiden for Andy McBrine! Keeps it tight and full around middle and leg, Sean Williams pushes it to cover.

32.50

Tosses it full and on middle and off, Sean Williams gets a good stride in and blocks it back to the bowler.

32.40

Into the pads this time, on a fuller length, Sean Williams sees it out.

32.30

Drags the length slightly shorter than the previous one but keeps it straight, Sean Williams rocks back and keeps it out.

32.20

Full and slanting into the stumps, Sean Williams blocks it under his eyes.

32.10

From around the wicket, flights it full and on off, Sean Williams makes room and cuts it straight to backward point.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 32 overs : 103/3

D Myers28 (57)

S Williams23 (36)

B McCarthy9-0-22-1

31.60

Swinging away, on a good length, outside off, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

31.51

Slightly short of a good length and around middle and off, Sean Williams taps it to cover and gets a single.

31.40

Angling it away, on a good length, Sean Williams leans ahead and taps it to cover.

31.31lb

Tails in a yorker, on leg, Dion Myers looks to flick it fine but makes no connection off the bat. The ball brushes his front boot and trickles to the left of the keeper who dives to his left to make a stop. The batter across for a leg bye.

31.21

Attacks the stumps, on a fuller length, Sean Williams taps it to the right of mid on for a single.

31.10

Starts from over the wicket and hurls it on a good length, just outside off and with some inward shape, Sean Williams leaves it alone.

Barry McCarthy to operate from the other end.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 31 overs : 100/3

D Myers28 (55)

S Williams21 (32)

A McBrine3-0-8-0

30.60

Keeps it straight and full, Dion Myers eases it back to the bowler.

30.50

Full and at the stumps, Dion Myers tucks it in front of short leg.

30.42

Tosses it a tad fuller and on middle, Dion Myers tucks it behind the square on the leg side for a couple of runs. 100 runs come up for Zimbabwe and the lead now is 60 runs.

30.30

Back to over the wicket and serves it on a fuller length and on middle and leg, Dion Myers tucks it to mid-wicket.

30.21

Switches to around the wicket for the left-hander and bowls it fuller and on off, Sean Williams cuts it to deep point for a single.

30.11

Comes from over the wicket and lands it full and into the pads, Dion Myers clips it to the right of mid-wicket for a single.

We are back for the post-Lunch session on Day 3! The Sun is beating down on the ground and the umpires are making their way out to the middle. The Irish players just stretch a bit before huddling up and taking to the field. The duo of Dion Myers and Sean Williams is also back out for Zimbabwe. It will be the off-spin of Andy McBrine to get proceedings underway with the ball in this session. Let's go...

... DAY 3, SESSION 2 ...

Right then, Zimbabwe have done well to stretch their lead to 56 runs at the end of the first session on Day 3 but still have a lot of work to do. Dion Myers and Sean Williams have both looked assured at the crease so far but a break in play can always tamper with the flow of things. With the game on a knife's edge, the post-Lunch session will be crucial for both sides to build an advantage and press it home. Join us in a bit as the post-Lunch session is scheduled to begin at 6.12 pm IST (12.42 pm GMT), delayed by a couple of minutes as the first session concluded a tad bit late.

Ireland won't be too displeased by their exploits with the ball but would have liked one more wicket or to have conceded fewer runs. The main trio of Irish pacers - Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy and Craig Young each picked up a wicket but just like in the first innings, McCarthy looked the best of the bunch. A couple of early dropped catches could have proved costly but they have done more than a decent job in the field since then and will look to come out firing after the interval.

At the start of Day 3, Zimbabwe were 12 for 0 in 4 overs and have added a further 84 runs in 26 overs. Once again, the openers looked solid but Gumbie and Masvaure both fell in quick succession, leaving skipper Craig Ervine to come to the fore. Ervine tried to get his eye in but seem to struggle a bit and it was Dion Myers at the other end who was able to keep the scoreboard ticking. Ervine was finally put out of his misery as he offered no shot to a length ball but since then, Sean Williams has come in and added quick runs to the total.

An uninterrupted session to start Day 3 and at the Lunch interval, neither side has really been able to take a significant lead over the other. However, in the past 2 days, we have seen things change very quickly in the post-Lunch session and in general, it has been a positive one for the fielding side.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 30 overs : 96/3

S Williams20 (31)

D Myers25 (50)

M Humphreys1-0-6-0

29.62

Short delivery once again on middle and leg. Sean Williams goes deep into the crease and flicks it towards deep square leg for a brace. That will be LUNCH on DAY 3!

29.50

Short and on middle. Sean Williams rocks back and dabs it down.

29.42

Short and on leg. Sean Williams rotates and glances it towards deep fine leg, past the short leggy. A couple taken in between.

29.31

On a length on middle and leg. Dion Myers eases it to the right of the bowler. Matthew Humphreys dives and tries to make a stop but misses. The batters takes a single.

29.20

Flatter and shorter just outside off. Dion Myers hangs back to cut it but cuts it straight to the fielder at short cover.

29.11

Short delivery but the ball stays low after the bounce. Sean Williams hangs back and flicks it towards deep square leg for one.

The left-arm spinner, Matthew Humphreys does finally get to bowl his first over in a home Test match and it will be the last over before Lunch as well.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 29 overs : 90/3

S Williams15 (27)

D Myers24 (48)

A McBrine2-0-4-0

28.61

Flatter one and fuller on middle and leg. Sean Williams nudges it towards square leg for a single.

28.50

Fuller delivery on off. Sean Williams pats it down.

28.40

Tossed up fuller on off. Sean Williams prods and blocks it well towards cover.

28.30

On a length on off and just outside off. Sean Williams rocks back and eases it outside off.

28.20

A bit short on off. Sean Williams hangs back and taps it back to the bowler.

28.10

Tossed up fuller on stump. Sean Williams blocks it outside off.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 28 overs : 89/3

D Myers24 (48)

S Williams14 (21)

C Campher2-0-12-0

27.60

Fuller and wide outside off. Dion Myers leaves it alone.

27.50

Bangs a short delivery. Dion Myers ducks at it.

27.43

Good work in the deep! Back of a length outside off, angling it away. Sean Williams detects the movement of the delivery and cuts it hard towards deep cover-point. The fielder at the deep has a chase to his left and slides to save the boundary. The ball bounces off the ground at the moment he is fielding, for that he parries it further but saves it at the end.

27.30

Pitches up on leg and middle. Sean Williams flicks it but straight to the man at the mid-wicket.

27.20

Fuller now, just outside off, angling it away from the batter. Sean Williams isn't interested to perform anything at it.

27.11

Curtis Campher comes over the wicket, and pitches on a length on middle and leg. Dion Myers nudges it towards mid-wicket for a single.

A change from both ends as Curtis Campher comes into the attack now.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 27 overs : 85/3

S Williams11 (18)

D Myers23 (45)

A McBrine1-0-3-0

26.60

A bit short outside off. Sean Williams eases it towards short third man for no runs.

26.50

Fullish once again, around off. Sean Williams prods and blocks it outisde off.

26.40

Andy McBrine comes round the wicket now, bowls fuller on off. Sean Williams rests it down.

26.33

Short delivery once again a bit wider than the previous one. Dion Myers once again goes deep into the crease and cuts it towards the sweeper cover. The man at short cover gives a chase and saves the boundary. Three runs taken in between.

26.20

Short one now, just outside off. Dion Myers goes deep into the crease and cuts it but straight to cover.

26.10

Andy McBrine starts over the wicket, and pitches it fuller on off. Dion Myers prods and eases it to the leg side.

Just a few minutes left now for the Lunch break and Andy Balbirnie has decided that it is time for some spin as Andy McBrine has been tossed the ball.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 26 overs : 82/3

S Williams11 (15)

D Myers20 (42)

M Adair11-1-32-1

25.60

Back of a length on off. Sean Williams hangs back and pats it down.

25.52

Fuller delivery, angling it to the leg. Sean Williams beautifully flicks it towards deep fine leg region and gets a couple of runs.

25.40

Fuller delivery just outside off. Sean Williams lunges halfway and defends it outside off.

25.30

Back of a length, wide outside off. Sean Williams lifts his willow up and is not interested to play at it.

25.20

Back of a length on off. Sean Williams rocks back and dabs it down.

25.11lb

LEG BYE! On a length, angling it towards the batter. Dion Myers tries to block it but misses on the inner edge and thumps his pad. The ball rolls towards the leg side and the batter gets a single.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 25 overs : 79/3

S Williams9 (10)

D Myers20 (41)

C Campher1-0-8-0

24.60

Hard-length delivery outside off. Sean Williams is happy to make a leave.

24.54

FOUR! Two boundaries in one over! Sean Williams is trying to ease the situation for Zimbabwe! Back of a length outside off. Sean Williams once again camps back and opens his willow to use the pace of the ball and guide it toward deep backward point.

24.40

Length delivery on off, shaping it away. Sean Williams tries to push it towards off but gets beaten on the outer edge.

24.34

FOUR! That timing was absolutely perfect! Back of a length outside off, angling it away. Sean Williams holds back and just opens his willow to guide the delivery towards the deep point fence for a boundary.

24.20

Fullish outside off. Sean Williams tries to drive it but gets beaten on the outer edge.

24.10

Fuller outside off. Sean Williams blocks it outside off.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 24 overs : 71/3

S Williams1 (4)

D Myers20 (41)

M Adair10-1-30-1

23.61

On a length on middle. Sean Williams tries to push at it but gets the inner edge. The ball rolls towards square leg and gets a single.

23.50

Angling away, outside off and on a fuller length, Sean Williams leaves it alone.

23.40

Fuller delivery wide outside off. Sean Williams leaves it alone.

23.34lb

FOUR LEG BYES! Fuller delivery, pitching it down the leg and angling it a bit in. Sean Williams tries to flick it but misses. The ball brushes the side of the pad and zips past the right of the keeper. Andy Balbirnie leaps to his right but fails to keep it.

Sean Williams is the new batter in.

23.2W

OUT! LBW! Ireland were desperate to have that wicket and it's none other than Mark Adair who delivers on his home turf. Adair bowls it on a good length on middle and off, not providing any swing to the delivery. Craig Ervine covers the stump and lifts his willow high up to allow the delivery but the ball thumps his lower back thigh pad. Appeal goes all the way and the Umpire nods his head and raises his finger up. Craig Ervine who was crumbling under pressure since the start has to depart now! He goes for 7 (22) and Zimbabwe have slipped from 38/0 to 66/3. They lead by just 26 runs.

23.10

On a length down the leg. Craig Ervine tries to flick but misses. Kepper takes it well.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 23 overs : 66/2

D Myers20 (41)

C Ervine7 (20)

C Young6-2-14-1

22.60

CLOSE! A bit fuller than the usual delivery, but no movement on the ball. Dion Myers tries to block it but again get beaten on the outer edge.

22.50

Good-length delivery outside off, jaggs it back. Dion Myers respects the delivery and performs a leave.

22.40

Back of a length just outside off, angling it in but nipping it away once again. This time Dion Myers fall for it and performs a block but gets beaten with a thin air.

22.30

On a length once again to the same channel, nipping it away from the batter. Dion Myers once again shoulders the delivery not taking any risk.

22.20

On a length just outside off, on the sixth wicket. Dion Myers prods to cover the stump and withdraws his willow.

22.10

Back of a length outside off. Dion Myers lets that one through.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 22 overs : 66/2

C Ervine7 (20)

D Myers20 (35)

M Adair9-1-29-0

21.60

Fuller delivery, attacking the batter once again. Craig Ervine blocks it back to the bowler. Mark Adair dives to his right and makes a one-handed stop. No runs from the delivery.

21.52

Fuller delivery now just outside off. Craig Ervine tries to block it outside off but gets an outer edge. The ball rolls towards deep backward point and they get a brace.

21.41

On a length on off and middle, angling in. Dion Myers nudges it towards wide mid on and gets a single.

21.30

Beaten! Good-length delivery on off and nipping it away from the batter once again. Dion Myers hangs back and tries to perform a block but misses with a thin air.

21.20

Hard-length delivery outside off and shaping it away from the batter. Dion Myers covers the stump and lifts his willow high up to allow the delivery.

21.10

Short delivery coming up once again on middle. Dion Myers drops his stance and is happy to make a leave.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 21 overs : 63/2

C Ervine5 (18)

D Myers19 (31)

C Young5-1-14-1

20.60

On a length outside off, angling way outside. Craig Ervine leaves this delivery alone.

20.50

Fires a short delivery on middle. Craig Ervine decides to duck at it.

20.41

Back of a length attacking the hips of the batter now. Dion Myers stays at his crease and nudges it towards square leg for a single.

20.34

FOUR! CRACKED! Dion Myers is looking well-settled here! This is a good-length delivery outside off, with no swing to propose. Dion Myers camps back crouches a bit and cuts it beautifully like a hot knife through the butter, towards the deep cover-point fence for four more runs.

20.21

On a length on off. Craig Ervine hangs back and soft hands the delivery towards cover-point for a single.

20.10

Play and a miss! Once again Craig Ervine is having a bit of difficulty facing the delivery nagging outside off. Young bowls back of a length outside off and angles it in a bit. Craig Ervine plays it inside the line but misses with a large gap on his outside edge.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 20 overs : 57/2

D Myers14 (29)

C Ervine4 (14)

M Adair8-1-26-0

19.60

Bangs short one now, down the leg. Dion Myers drops his stance to leave this one as well.

19.50

GOOD LEAVE! Good-length delivery just outside off and jagging it back a shy bit. Dion Myers detects the movement, prods and withdraws his willow to allow it to the keeper.

19.42

Fuller delivery on middle and leg, nipping it in towards the pads. Dion Myers does well to glance at it towards deep fine leg for a brace.

19.30

Back of a length, pitching it just outside off. Dion Myers rocks back and pats it down.

19.20

Fullish delivery just outside off. Dion Myers prods and drives it gently towards the man at the cover region.

19.10

On a length, wide outside off. Dion Myers is happy to leave this delivery.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 19 overs : 55/2

C Ervine4 (14)

D Myers12 (23)

C Young4-1-8-1

18.60

Adair switches to around the stumps and bowls it back of a length outside off. The ball angles back in as Craig Ervine pulls out of his attempted push off the back foot.

18.51

Fuller delivery on leg. Dion Myers clips it towards deep square leg. The batters takes a comfortable single.

18.41

Short delivery once again just outside off. Craig Ervine this time punches it successfully towards point and gets a single.

18.30

On a length, down the leg side now. Craig Ervine attempts to flick it but fails to gain any connection.

18.20

Play and a miss once again! Back of a length outside off, shaping it away. Craig Ervine camps back to punch it towards cover but misses on the outer edge.

18.10

Hard-length delivery and angles it outside off. Craig Ervine tries to push it outside off but gets beaten on the outer edge.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 18 overs : 53/2

D Myers11 (22)

C Ervine3 (9)

M Adair7-1-24-0

17.62

Short delivery on off. Dion Myers pulls it hard towards deep mid-wicket and gets a couple of runs.

17.50

An appeal for LBW, pretty big one too but 'No,' says the Umpire! This is on a length on middle and leg, nipping it in. Dion Myers strides out to block it but gets beaten on the inner edge and thumps his pad. It seems the ball must have passed down the leg stump.

17.40

On a nagging length, just outside off. Dion Myers tries to block it inside the line but gets nicked on the outer edge. The ball bounces off towards second slip.

17.30

Back of a length outside off, closer to the wicket. Dion Myers camps back and eases it outside off.

17.24

FOUR! Cuts it and cuts it pretty well! Back of a length outside off, shaping it away from the batter. Dion Myers hangs back, waits for the delivery and extends his arm to cut the delivery through the point region to get his second boundary of the inning.

17.10

Mark Adair comes over the wicket, pitching it fuller on off. Dion Myers prods and blocks it firmly.

Drinks break! A fascinating first hour or so on Day 3 and Ireland have the early advantage. After a cautious start from Zimbabwe with the bat, the openers almost single-handedly wrote off Ireland's lead of 40 runs but Joylord Gumbie was caught out. At the start of the very next over, Prince Masvaure too fell and that has left Zimbabwe a bit reeling here. The Irish pacers have done decently well and will be happy with those two wickets. The focus from both teams will now be on consistency before the Lunch break. Also, Barry McCarthy has now been given a break and Mark Adair is brought back on.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 17 overs : 47/2

C Ervine3 (9)

D Myers5 (16)

C Young3-1-6-1

16.60

Digs it short and over middle, Craig Ervine ducks and leaves it alone. Zimbabwe lead by 7 runs after the first hour of play on Day 3.

16.50

Beats the bat this time! Hits the deck hard on a short of a length and hanging away just outside off, Craig Ervine tries to stab it with a straight at but gets beaten on the outside edge.

16.41

Fuller this time and into the pads, Dion Myers clips it to the right of mid-wicket for a single.

16.30

Straightens the line and attacks the top of off, on a length, Dion Myers taps it to cover.

16.20

Serves it on a length, outside off, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

16.11

Attacks the off stump, on a length, Craig Ervine tucks it behind square on the leg side for a single.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 16 overs : 45/2

D Myers4 (13)

C Ervine2 (6)

B McCarthy8-0-20-1

15.60

Swings it away, on a length and outside off, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

15.50

On a length and on off, Dion Myers blocks it down the deck.

15.40

That one shoots off the deck! McCarthy digs it short and angles it into the right-hander on middle and leg. The ball climbs on the batter but Myers is equal to the task and sways out of the line.

15.30

Swinging away, from outside off and on a length, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

15.21

On a length and on the pads, Craig Ervine tucks it behind square on the leg side for a single.

15.10

Angling away, on a short of a length and outside off, Craig Ervine shoulders arms.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 15 overs : 44/2

D Myers4 (9)

C Ervine1 (4)

C Young2-1-4-1

14.60

Gets the line closer to the fourth and fifth stump, and gets the ball to shape away off the deck, Dion Myers presses ahead and looks for the push but gets beaten on the outside edge.

14.50

Keeps it outside off again, and on a shorter length, Dion Myers opts not to offer any shot.

14.40

On a length and outside off, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

14.30

Ouch! That would hurt! Young hits the deck hard on a length and over middle, Dion Myers looks to keep it out with an angled bat but misses onto his groin.

14.24

FOUR! Nicely done! Zimbabwe now take the lead! Fuller in length and on off, Dion Myers with very soft hands steers this one through gully for a boundary.

14.10

Comes from over the wicket and lands it on a length and on off, Dion Myers blocks it out.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 14 overs : 40/2

D Myers0 (3)

C Ervine1 (4)

B McCarthy7-0-19-1

13.61lb

Attacks the pads on a length, Dion Myers misses out on his flick. The ball deflects off his pads and rolls over to the on side for a leg bye. Zimbabwe have now got rid of the deficit.

13.51

Lands it on a good length and on the pads, Craig Ervine clips it to square leg and gets a single to get off the mark.

13.40

Keeps it tight on a length and outside off, Craig Ervine cuts it to point.

13.30

On a good length and on off, Craig Ervine looks to keep it out but gets beaten with the angle.

13.20

Fuller in length and on the pads, Craig Ervine flicks it to mid-wicket.

The skipper, Craig Ervine walks in with Zimbabwe in a slight spot of bother.

13.1W

OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Ireland get two in quick succession and Zimbabwe are in some real trouble now having lost both the openers for just 38 runs. A truly deserved wicket for Barry McCarthy after all his hard work! He steams in from over the wicket and lands it on a hard length on middle and off, the ball nips back in sharp and cuts Masvaure in halves. On the way, it takes an inside edge and goes straight into the mitts of Lorcan Tucker. Prince Masvaure looks very upset and feels it went off his thigh pad. It was a watchful knock from Masvaure but sadly for him and his team, there is nothing much to show on the scoreboard. 12 from 32 does indicate that he faced plenty of time in the middle, but having spent all that time, the team, instead of surging ahead, gets pushed back.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 13 overs : 38/1

D Myers0 (2)

P Masvaure12 (31)

C Young1-1-0-1

12.60

Angles it in, on a fuller length and on the pads, Dion Myers flicks it to mid-wicket.

12.50

Shorter in length and on off, Dion Myers blocks it out.

Dion Myers walks in at number 3.

12.4W

OUT! TAKEN! Craig Young delivers in his very first over and Ireland fielders look pumped! The bowling change works perfectly for them. Young comes from over the wicket and serves it fuller in length and on off. The ball swings away off the deck. Joylord Gumbie is drawn ahead into the shot and looks to play at it with hard hands. The ball nicks the outside edge and shoots behind to Andy Balbirnie at second slip who takes a very sharp catch around his chest. The 38-run opening stand is broken and Zimbabwe still trail by 2 runs.

12.30

Keeps it tight on length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie leaves it alone.

12.20

Fuller this time just around off, Joylord Gumbie nudges it to the on side.

12.10

Nice start from Young! Comes from over the wicket and hurls it on a length, just outside off, with away movement off the deck, Joylord Gumbie plays inside the line and misses.

First bowling change of the morning as Craig Young comes into the attack.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 12 overs : 38/0

P Masvaure12 (31)

J Gumbie24 (41)

B McCarthy6-0-18-0

11.60

A beauty to end the over! Angles this away just outside off and on a nagging length, Prince Masvaure looks for a gentle push but is beaten on the outside edge.

11.50

Bowls it on a length and on off, Prince Masvaure presses ahead and blocks it.

11.40

Hits the deck on a shorter length again and over middle and leg, Prince Masvaure ducks underneath.

11.31

On a short of a length and on off, Joylord Gumbie punches it to deep point for a single.

11.20

That could have easily dropped back onto the stumps! This will encourage the Irish pacers. McCarthy digs it very short and aims the helmet over middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie is hurried back onto the crease and looks to keep it out. He sticks his bat out and gets pinged high on the blade. The ball just drops to the right of leg stump.

11.14

FOUR! Edged but seemed to be deliberate. McCarthy bangs it on a short of a length and on off, Joylord Gumbie rocks back and covers the line and just opens the bat face. The ball catches the outside edge and races past gully for a boundary.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 11 overs : 33/0

P Masvaure12 (28)

J Gumbie19 (38)

M Adair6-1-18-0

10.60

On top of off, and on a length, Prince Masvaure tucks it to mid-wicket.

10.50

Angles it away, on a good length and just outside off, Prince Masvaure reads the line well and shoulders arms.

10.40

Errs in both line and length here does Adair. Lands it too full and wayward on off. Prince Masvaure is unbothered and offers nothing.

10.30

Angles it away, well outside off, Prince Masvaure leaves it alone.

10.23

A nice looking shot that! Adair keeps it short and over off, Joylord Gumbie quickly rocks back and punches it past cover for three good runs. Zimbabwe now trail by just 7 runs.

10.11

Keeps it on a back of a length and angling away, just outside off, Prince Masvaure drops it in front of cover and gets to the other end.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 10 overs : 29/0

J Gumbie16 (37)

P Masvaure11 (23)

B McCarthy5-0-13-0

9.64

FOUR! A real shot of authority from Joylord Gumbie! Too full and on off, Gumbie leans on it and drives it through the gap at covers for four runs.

9.51

Angles it away on a short of a length and outside off, Prince Masvaure tucks it in front of cover and gets a single.

9.40

Goes full and into the stumps, Prince Masvaure offers a solid front foot defence and pushes it to the right of the bowler.

9.30

On a fuller length and into the stumps, Prince Masvaure stabs it down the deck.

9.20

Keeps it tight and on middle and off, Prince Masvaure watches the ball closely and leaves it alone.

9.10

Hits the length right this time and bowls it around that fourth stump line, Prince Masvaure pokes at it and gets a thick outside edge short of the fielder at gully.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 9 overs : 24/0

J Gumbie12 (36)

P Masvaure10 (18)

M Adair5-1-14-0

8.60

Slightly back of a length and just down leg, Joylord Gumbie sways back inside the line and leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

8.50

Adjusts the line back onto the stumps and on a length, Joylord Gumbie defends it solidly.

8.40

On a fuller length and just outside off, gets the batter to play at it. Joylord Gumbie plants his front leg ahead and looks to play it through covers but gets beaten on the outside edge.

8.30

Keeps it straight onto the stumps and on a length, Joylord Gumbie shows full face of the bat and blocks it back to the bowler.

8.20

On off and on a length, Joylord Gumbie punches it to point.

8.10

Continues from over the wicket angle and serves it on a length and just outside off, Joylord Gumbie blocks it out.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 8 overs : 24/0

P Masvaure10 (18)

J Gumbie12 (30)

B McCarthy4-0-8-0

7.60

Lands it on a length and on middle, Prince Masvaure taps it to square leg.

7.51

Angling it into the body, keeps it on a short of a length and over middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie gets on top of his toes and tucks it to the on side for a single.

7.41

Keeps it around the pads and lands it on a length, Prince Masvaure clips it behind the square on the leg side for a single.

7.30

Serves it back of a length and on leg, Prince Masvaure stays deep in the crease and taps it in front of square leg. The batters set themselves off for the run but then turned back.

7.20

Hits the deck hard on a shorter length and over middle and leg, Prince Masvaure awkwardly dabs it back onto the pitch.

7.10

Angles it away, on a fuller length and outside off, Prince Masvaure looks at the line closely and makes the leave.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 7 overs : 22/0

J Gumbie11 (29)

P Masvaure9 (13)

M Adair4-0-14-0

6.60

Drags the length short and lands it outside off, Joylord Gumbie leaves it alone.

6.50

On a length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie blocks it well.

6.41lb

Full and into the pads, Prince Masvaure looks for the flick but misses. The ball clips his pad and rolls over to the leg side. The batter steal a quick leg bye.

6.30

A mix-up but luckily doesn't cost anything! Adair bowls it on a length and on off, Prince Masvaure cuts it in front of the fielder at point. Gumbie from the other end charges for the run but is sent back in time by Masvaure. The fielder misses the shy at the stumps on the bowling end.

6.20

Fuller this time and on off, a hint of away movement off the deck. Prince Masvaure looks for the push through covers but gets beaten on the outside edge.

6.14

FOUR! Nicely done by Prince Masvaure! Adair comes from over the wicket and lands it on a back of a length and on leg, Masvaure just dabs it fine past short fine leg for a boundary.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 6 overs : 17/0

J Gumbie11 (27)

P Masvaure5 (9)

B McCarthy3-0-6-0

5.60

Lands it on a god length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie is happy to leave it alone.

5.50

Keeps it outside off and on a length, shaping away further, Joylord Gumbie leaves it alone.

5.40

On a length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie pushes it to point.

5.30

On a fuller length and on middle and off, Joylord Gumbie pushes it to cover.

5.21

Dropped again! Can you believe it? McCarthy bowls it nice and full on off, Prince Masvaure looks to drive it through off but gets a thick outside edge falling in front of Mark Adair at the third slip. Adair gets low with both hands but doesn't judge the line well and it goes through his fingers. The batters get a single.

5.10

DROPPED! Barry McCarthy drops an easy chance off his own bowling. Oh dear, this could've been a perfect start but is not meant to be. Comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and on middle and off, Prince Masvaure looks to play it straight but is deceived by the lack of pace and chops it back to the left of the bowler. McCarthy on his follow-through does well to get both hands to it but spills it out falling to his left.

Barry McCarthy to bowl from the Belfast end.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 5 overs : 16/0

J Gumbie11 (23)

P Masvaure4 (7)

M Adair3-0-10-0

4.60

On a back of a length and outside off, with some away movement that takes the ball further away from Joylord Gumbie who leaves it alone.

4.50

Looks to attack the pads and on a fuller length, Joylord Gumbie clips it to the fielder at square leg.

4.44

FOUR! Gumbie gets the first boundary of this morning! Adair bowls it on a length and on off, Joylord Gumbie opens the bat face deliberately and steers it past gully for a boundary.

4.30

Straighter and fuller, on off, Joylord Gumbie leans ahead and pushes it to the fielder at point.

4.20

Closer to that off stump line, on a length and swinging away, Joylord Gumbie reads the line well and offers no shot.

4.10

Adair comes from over the wicket and lands it outside off and on a length, with some away movement off the deck. Joylord Gumbie holds his bat high and leaves this first one alone.

The Roy Torrens Bell is rung signaling the start of the Day's play. The umpires slowly make their way out to the middle and they are followed by the players of Ireland. The opening pair of Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure will resume their overnight stay on the crease for Zimbabwe. Mark Adair will get proceedings underway with the ball. Let's play...

PITCH REPORT - Kyle McCallan is pitchside. McCallan says that the pitch looks good to bat on and has a lot of grass on it but it isn't live grass. Reckons that the ball will carry through nicely and there are a few foot marks near the landing area. Also mentions that the ball didn't turn much on Day 2 but the Sun will dry out the surface and Zimbabwe should be looking to bat the whole day on it.

The weather has been up and down throughout the course of the first two days of this Test match but in general, the forecast for Day 3 is much better. There is a chance of a shower in the afternoon but given the unpredictability, we cannot rule out another curtailed day of Test cricket. 98 overs are once again scheduled to be bowled on Day 3 and if by any means we get those overs in, this match could well be heading into the final summit. It is also a sold-out day as it is a Saturday and the crowd has come in large numbers to support the home side.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe will be focused on batting through the day, steadily accumulating runs without worrying too much about the total, knowing they have two more days of play remaining after today. However, by the end of today's play, we might have a clearer picture of where this Test match is heading. It certainly promises to be a gripping day of Test cricket. Stick around, as the action is set to resume shortly.

The surface still appears favourable for batting, though the occasional seam movement and variable bounce could pose challenges. With the weather forecast looking clear, the pitch might become more conducive for spinners, which could be decisive for both Ireland and Zimbabwe later on. Ireland will be aiming for their pacers to start with tighter lines and lengths, unlike their first innings, to exert pressure on the Zimbabwe batters and restrict them to a total below 200 for a good chance to chase it down.

Just two days after the start, and despite multiple rain stoppages, the game has progressed swiftly, bringing us to the third innings with Zimbabwe trailing by just 28 runs and all wickets intact. The highly anticipated opening stand of Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure, which impressed with a solid start in the first innings, will be keen on adopting the same approach to establish a strong foundation for Zimbabwe in this second innings. With the ball just 4 overs old, the Zimbabwean openers will have the additional task of seeing through the first hour of play today.

Hello and a warm welcome to the start of an action-packed Day 3, the 'moving day' of Test matches! Today is particularly crucial as it marks the pivotal point in this One-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe, with the game evenly poised and both teams vying for dominance.

... DAY 3, SESSION 1 ...

Day 3 is generally known as the moving day in Test cricket and given the fact that even after so much of rain, we have seen two completed innings inside the space of the first two days, Day 3 could well and truly be decisive. Ireland do have a lead of 28 runs and will come hard at the opposition batters but Zimbabwe might just get to bat under good sunshine. The pitch though might get weary on Day 3 and the ball might grip and turn a bit more. Day 3 will commence at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT) on Saturday but you can join us beforehand for the build-up. Cheers!

Peter Moor, the star of the show with the bat for Ireland is down for a chat. He says that he is grateful that they got some runs on the board and they are pretty much confident about it. He is happy to contribute some important runs for the team and score runs against Zimbabwe.  He reckons that the pitch is a bit flat and the batters might take use of it but there were plenty deliveries that swung more than they expected, so the pitch also has something for the bowlers as well. He also says that the runs that they got at the end of their innings were important but he also feels their bowlers also have to put pressure on the opposition to capitalize on the lead. He ends up saying that Day 3 would be important for this face-off and it would be an exciting Test.

Zimbabwe will feel that they have been able to get themselves into excellent positions thus far in this game but haven't done justice to it. With the bat, they had a wonderful foundation laid down by the opening pair and then with the ball, they had Ireland on the ropes in that second session but have let the momentum slip. In doing so, they also bowled a record number of byes and in total, the total number of extras bowled was simply underwhelming according to international standards. They will now hope that the openers put on another solid stand on Day 3 and they are able to set a defendable target.

Day 2 began with Ireland starting off their first innings and it was a brisk first-wicket stand between skipper Andy Balbirnie and Peter Moor that got them in a wonderful position. Moor in particular looked like a million bucks but the Irish batters lost their way in the second session. Moor made a solid 79 but they were on the verge of conceding a first-innings lead but Andy McBrine stood up yet again just as he did earlier on with the ball and frustrated the opposition bowlers. After the second rain break, Matthew Humphreys came out and sent the ball to the fence with regularity before McBrine finally got out.

An outstanding rearguard action towards the end of Day 2 and the Test match is set up beautifully. A topsy-turvy day in total with a couple of big rain stoppages and both sides had their moments but at the end of Day 2, Zimbabwe trail by 28 runs and with all wickets intact, they will look to make the best use of the morning session on Day 3 as it is expected to be bright and sunny for most parts of the game going forward.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 4 overs : 12/0

P Masvaure4 (7)

J Gumbie7 (17)

B McCarthy2-0-5-0

3.60

Full-length delivery down the leg to the left hander. Prince Masvaure tries to glance at it but misses it all. That will be it for the DAY 2.

3.51

Fullish delivery, wide outside off. Joylord Gumbie extends his arms to push it towards cover-point and get a single.

3.40

Hard-length delivery now, outside off, shaping in. Joylord Gumbie goes deep into the crease, covers the stump and withdraws his willow back to leave the delivery alone.

3.30

Fullish delivery on middle. Joylord Gumbie strides out halfway and works it towards the short mid-wicket fielder.

3.20

On a length now, on leg, angling it down the leg. Joylord Gumbie tries to nudge at it but misses.

3.10

Full-length delivery just outside off. Joylord Gumbie plants his front foot and opens his face of bat towards cover to block it off.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 3 overs : 11/0

P Masvaure4 (6)

J Gumbie6 (12)

M Adair2-0-6-0

2.60

Fuller delivery on off and middle. Prince Masvaure prods and defends it solidly outside off.

2.54

FOUR! Oh... streaky! Mark Adair bowls this one a bit fuller just outside off, angling it away from the left-hander. Prince Masvaure tries to push it towards cover but gets nicked on the outer edge which zips past, through the vacant gully region.

2.40

Fullish delivery and wide outside off. Prince Masvaure shoulders the delivery.

2.31

Good-length delivery outside off. Joylord Gumbie goes deep into his crease and dabs it towards the cover region for single.

2.20

On a length outside off, shaping it away. Joylord Gumbie lifts his bat and is happy to let that one through.

2.10

On a length just outside off and nipping it away a shy bit. Joylord Gumbie hangs back to block it down but gets beaten on the outer edge narrowly.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 2 overs : 6/0

P Masvaure0 (3)

J Gumbie5 (9)

B McCarthy1-0-4-0

1.60

Length delivery on middle and leg. Prince Masvaure blocks it towards his leg side for no runs.

1.50

Fuller on off. Prince Masvaure prods and defends it solidly.

1.41lb

LEG BYE! Short delivery on middle and leg. Joylord Gumbie hangs back and hops to pat it down, but fails to get any bat to it. The ball thumps the upper thigh pad and the ball rolls towards short fine leg. Single taken.

1.32

Fullish once again on middle and leg. Joylord Gumbie puts his face of his bat towards the mid-wicket region and gets a couple of runs.

1.20

Back of a length outside off. Joylord Gumbie lets it through.

1.12

Barry McCarthy starts off with a fuller delivery just outside off. Joylord Gumbie plants his front foot and pushes it to the right of the mid off. A couple of runs were taken.

Barry McCarthy to bustle in from the other end.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 1 overs : 1/0

P Masvaure0 (1)

J Gumbie1 (5)

M Adair1-0-1-0

0.60

Back of a length nagging just outside off. Prince Masvaure hangs back and is happy to leave the delivery.

0.51

Fuller delivery around off. Joylord Gumbie eases it towards vacant cover and gets a single.

0.40

On a length wide outside off. Joylord Gumbie lifts his willow up and allows the delivery.

0.30

Play and a miss! A bit fuller than the previous one, on off and shaping it away. Joylord Gumbie falls for it and tries to block, but gets beaten on the outer edge.

0.20

Good-length delivery just outside off and once again nipping it away. Joylord Gumbie leaves this one as well.

0.10

Swing right away! Mark Adair bowls on a length just outside off and shapes it away from the batter. Joylord Gumbie holds his stance and leaves it alone to the keeper.

Commentary

We are back for Zimbabwe's second innings! The sky has cleared up and there's plenty of natural light as the umpires and the Irish players make their way out to the middle. Mark Adair has taken the new ball and is raring to go as the opening pair for Zimbabwe - Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure stride out to the middle. Let's go...

... THIRD INNINGS ...

Zimbabwe's second innings is about to start in a few minutes' time and it should be an exciting battle between the Irish pacers and the Zimbabwean opening pair as both sides look to end Day 2 on a high. Don't go anywhere as live action is moments away.

When play resumed after a pretty long rain break, Ireland were 9 down and still trailing by 4 runs but in the 5.3 overs of play that followed, Matthew Humphreys simply took the game by the scruff of the neck and put on a show. Ireland made 44 runs in those said overs and have ended up having a crucial 40-run lead. Zimbabwe will be very disappointed with their laid-back approach to the resumption of play and will now have to depend immensely on their openers to remain unscathed going into Day 3.

Zimbabwe have finally managed to bundle out Ireland but not before the final pair added on 47 runs and stretched Irealdn's lead to 40 runs overall! Zimbabwe will have to come out and bat for about 15 odd minutes but there are a few specks of rain falling down on the ground, so, the visitors might just escape batting under difficult conditions.

58.3W

OUT! LBW! That was some delivery from Tendai Chatara! This quickfire of a partnership for the final wicket ahs propelled Ireland to a solid total! Chatara bowls this one on a good length just outside off and jaggs back the delivery towards the off stump of the left-hander. Andy McBrine fails to understand the shape of the ball. He tries to cut it but goes all wrong and the ball thumps the back pad of the batter. Appeal goes all around and the Umpire raises his finger. Andy McBrine was apologetic to his partner but what a partnership these two batters have put up.

58.21

Fuller on off. Matthew Humphreys gets forward and pushes it towards cover to get a single.

58.12

Confidence is just flowing from the willow of Matthew Humphreys! Back of a length on off and middle. Matthew Humphreys pulls it hard to the gap of mid-wicket and square leg but the ball doesn't have much legs to roll towards the boundary fence. They take a double.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 58 overs : 247/9

M Humphreys24 (29)

A McBrine28 (44)

T Chivanga10-2-39-3

57.61

Tanaka Chivanga tries for a yorker but misses the line and bowls a low full toss. Matthew Humphreys nudges it towards square leg with a bit of footwork and gets a single.

57.50

Short delivery on middle and leg. Matthew Humphreys tries to pull but yet again it's a play and a miss.

57.40

Swing and a miss! Hard-length delivery outside off. Matthew Humphreys rocks back to cut it late but gets beaten on the outer edge.

57.31

Good-length delivery outside off. Andy McBrine prods and pushes it towards deep backward point for a single.

57.24

FOUR! Runs are coming thick and fast! Back of a length on middle and leg. Andy McBrine waits for the delivery to arrive and pulls it hard towards deep square leg fence for four more runs.

57.12

It was beautiful running in between the wickets! On a length just outside off. Andy McBrine stays at his stance and cuts it towards deep cover point and calls for double.

Tanaka Chivanga is brought back into the attack.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 57 overs : 239/9

M Humphreys23 (26)

A McBrine21 (41)

T Chatara15-3-44-1

56.60

On a length around off. Matthew Humphreys hangs back and pats it towards gully.

56.50

Full on middle. Matthew Humphreys gets forward and blocks it well.

56.44

FOUR! BEAUTIFULL! Matthew Humphreys is just not over with his strokeplay! Fuller delivery just outside off. Matthew Humphreys plants his front foot and launches the delivery over the mid off region. No one at the long off to save the boundary and four more runs for Matthew Humphreys.

56.30

Banged a short delivery on middle. Matthew Humphreys hangs back and solidly defends it towards mid-wicket.

56.21

Baack of a length on leg and middle. Andy McBrine nudges it towards mid-wicket and gets a single.

56.10

Back of a length on leg. Andy McBrine stays at his stance and lifts his willow up. The ball thumps his upper thigh pads and the ball parries towards the fine leg region.

Runs Scored 15 Runs

Score after 56 overs : 234/9

M Humphreys19 (22)

A McBrine20 (39)

B Muzarabani17-4-53-3

55.66

SIX! Wow, that has gone many a mile and 15 runs come off that over! An aggressive short ball from Blessing Muzarabani at the batter, Humphreys though hangs back and is able to swivel and hook it a long way over the square leg fence for a biggie.

55.54

FOUR MORE! That's loose from Blessing Muzarabani and Humphreys now moves into double digits. Just too short and wide, Humphreys throws his hands at it and cuts it well behind point for yet another boundary. Ireland lead by 18 runs now.

55.40

A bumper now around the off stump line, Matthew Humphreys backs away to pull but is well beaten.

55.30

Back of a length and outside off, gently shaping away, Matthew Humphreys has a poke at it but gets beaten past the outside edge.

55.24

FOUR! Matthew Humphreys is making full use of this opportunity as Ireland continue to chip away. Slightly back of a length and outside off, Humphreys stays back and gets his hands through the line of the ball, slapping it away through the cover region for a boundary.

55.11

Just short of a good length and angling back into the batter, Andy McBrine tucks it into the gap at mid-wicket and picks up another single.

Runs Scored 9 Runs

Score after 55 overs : 219/9

M Humphreys5 (17)

A McBrine19 (38)

T Chatara14-3-39-1

54.60

Short of a length and wide of the off stump, Matthew Humphreys looks to cut but misses.

54.54b

No chance for the keeper and Clive Madande cannot believe it! Good length on the pads, this one angles down leg sharply and Clive is caught flat-footed. The ball yet again rolls away into the fine leg fence.

54.44

FOUR! Hammered away! Floated up full and a bit wide of the off stump, Matthew Humphreys throws his hands at it and swats the ball square past the point fielder to pick up four runs.

54.30

Good length around the top of off and shaping away, Matthew Humphreys hangs back and blocks it off.

54.21

Ireland lead by 1 run! Pitched up on the stumps and angling back in, Andy McBrine pushes the ball in front of a deepish mid on and takes the single.

54.10

Back of a length around off and angling back in, Andy McBrine gets on the back foot and blocks it in front of covers.

Tendai Chatara to operate from the other end.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 54 overs : 210/9

M Humphreys1 (13)

A McBrine18 (36)

B Muzarabani16-4-38-3

53.60

Hard length on off stump and slanting back in, Matthew Humphreys covers the line of the ball and makes a solid block.

53.50

Full, pitching on leg and angling down, Matthew Humphreys misses the flick.

53.40

Good length around middle and angling in, Matthew Humphreys tucks it neatly towards mid-wicket.

53.34b

That's the unwanted record for Zimbabwe, 38 byes given away, the most in a single inning of a Test match ever. Pushed on a fuller length and well down leg, Clive Madande dives across but the ball evades him and rolls down to the fine leg fence. Also, the scores are now level.

53.20

Good length again but outside off this time and sliding right on, Matthew Humphreys leaves it alone.

53.10

A wayward start after a long break as Blessing Muzarabani pushes the ball on a good length and well down the leg side. Clive Madande has to spring across and pouch it.

We are back for the resumption of the play! The umpires make their way out to the middle and are followed by the players of Zimbabwe. It will be the pair of Andy McBrine and Matthew Humphreys to come out for Ireland and resume their final-wicket partnership. Blessing Muzarabani will get things back underway with the ball. Let's play...

UPDATE 10.48 pm IST (5.18 pm GMT) - No official word from the ground yet but the positive news is that the covers seem to be coming off. We might indeed get some play in before the day ends and that could be excellent news for cricketing fans. Would you believe it? Play is actually going to resume at 11.10 pm IST (5.40 pm GMT)! Also, it can go on till 12 am IST, the next day (6.30 pm GMT) which is enough for Ireland to even get bundled out and have Zimbabwe start their second innings.

UPDATE 10.35 pm IST (5.05 pm GMT) - Ten minutes to go for the inspection but the visuals seem pretty gloomy. The repair work is going on and the ground staff is trying their best but signs are not all that promising. Stay tuned as we should get an official word soon.

JUST IN - Hosts Sri Lanka Women have sealed a berth in the Women's Asia Cup Final moments ago alongside India Women! In a riveting 2nd semifinal in Dambulla, Sri Lanka Women have managed to chase down a target of 141 runs against Pakistan Women on the penultimate delivery of the game and the scenes on the field and in the stands are worth watching for the Lankan fans.

UPDATE 10.12 pm IST (4.42 pm GMT) - The strong burst of rain accompanied by heavy winds seems to have taken a toll on the ground and the umpires have scheduled an inspection at 10.45 pm IST (5.15 pm GMT) which is about half an hour away. Play can go on until 11.30 pm IST (6 pm GMT) but it will all come down to the weather and the fading light. You can catch up with the rest of the matches going on, mostly across the UK with the Test match between England and West Indies and The Hundred competition and read our coverage by simply switching tabs.

UPDATE 10.02 pm IST (4.32 pm GMT) - The visuals from the ground show that things have brightened up significantly and the rain seems to have stopped as well. There is movement near the pitch as well and the groundstaff are working 'round the clock to get things ready. Let's hope that the weather now stays dry and we can get some play in late on Day 2. Stay tuned for more updates.

UPDATE 9.48 pm IST (4.18 pm GMT) - Excellent foresight from the umpires as it is pelting down now! The intensity of the rain is pretty high and the wind has picked up quite a fair bit as well and hopefully, the wind will blow the rain away. From the look of it though, we will certainly have a decent amount of delay. Till we get more updates, you can switch tabs and follow our coverage of the 3rd Tets between England and West Indies were the visiting Windies team is on the verge of being bowled out. Also, a fun-fact for the readers is that this is the first time two international Test matches are going on simultaneously across the UK.

UPDATE 9.43 pm IST (4.13 pm GMT) - Well then, the umpires have called for covers! More of a protective move from the umpires as the rain isn't heavy by any means but it has gotten very dark and given the outfield has already taken a fair share of pounding with the rain during the Lunch break, this is probably the best move. Hopefully, this is not a long delay as the ground staff cover more and more of the field. Stick around for more updates.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 53 overs : 206/9

M Humphreys1 (7)

A McBrine18 (36)

T Chatara13-3-34-1

52.61

Back of a length around off and going away, Matthew Humphreys dabs the ball away past the man at point and picks up a single. Also, there seems to be heavy cloud cover at the moment and a few drops of rain have started to fall.

52.50

Pitched up close to the off stump and angling it away, Matthew Humphreys covers the line a bit and watches it well before making a leave.

52.41

Good length on the pads, Andy McBrine flicks it away down to fine leg and picks up a single.

52.30

Hard length outside off, Andy McBrine stands tall this time and pats it down in front of covers.

52.20

Back of a length outside off and swinging away a fair bit, Andy McBrine has a poke at it but is well beaten.

52.10

Good length around middle and jagging back in, Andy McBrine watches it all the way and blocks it from the crease.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 52 overs : 204/9

M Humphreys0 (5)

A McBrine17 (32)

B Muzarabani15-3-38-3

51.60

On a hard length and down past the off stump, left alone for the keeper to collect.

51.50

Bowled back of a length and around off stump, Matthew Humphreys leaves it alone.

51.51wd

WIDE! Too short! Banged in halfway down the pitch and over middle, Matthew Humphreys ducks under as the ball flies over his head to the keeper.

51.40

Hard length over middle and angled in, Matthew Humphreys stays compact and tucks it down to mid-wicket.

51.30

On a good length and angling down leg a bit, Matthew Humphreys misses the flick and the ball might6t have just brushed the pads.

51.20

Good length in the channel around off and nipping away, Matthew Humphreys leaves it alone.

Matthew Humphreys is the last man in for Ireland.

51.1W

OUT! TIMBER! Blessing Muzarabani has his third wicket and this has been some comeback from Zimbabwe with the ball. Muzarabani bowls it from a really high arm position and serves it on his natural length, which is a just short of a full length and brings the ball back in from around off. Craig Young opts to block off the back foot but is beaten past the inside edge and the ball just keeps a shade low and knocks over the top of the stumps. Zimbabwe trail by 7 runs with one wicket in hand.

Blessing Muzarabani will operate from the other end after the break.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 51 overs : 203/8

C Young3 (3)

A McBrine17 (32)

T Chatara12-3-32-1

50.63

Good-looking shot to get off the mark! Pitched up around off, Craig Young hits through the line of the ball and sends it well wide of extra cover but the ball plugs in and the batters get three runs.

50.50

Good length in the channel around off, angling in and going away, Craig Young presses back and shoulders arms at it.

50.40

Nicely pitched up around the off stump, seaming it away and Craig Young makes a watchful leave.

We are back for the third and final session on Day 2! The umpires make their way out to the middle as the players of Zimbabwe can be seen patiently waiting on the sidelines before taking to the field as well. Andy McBrine will resume his stay at the crease for Ireland and it will be Craig Young who will walk out to partner him. Tendai Chatara has the ball in hand and will finish off his incomplete over.

... DAY 2, SESSION 3 ...

Ireland won't be too pleased with the situation they are currently in and apart from Peter Moor no batter applied themselves well and if not for all those extras, Ireland could well have been in a precarious position. Also, that wicket right on the stroke of Tea has made things worse for them and quite remarkably, the hosts might not even end up with a first-innings lead. Join us in a few minutes' time at the final session on Day 2 is set to commence at 9.29 pm IST (3.59 pm GMT).

In the phase that followed, Zimbabwe were wayward with their lines and lengths and gave away plenty of extra runs. Just when things looked very gloomy, Blessing Muzarabani struck twice on consecutive deliveries to hand Zimbabwe a chance of making their way back into the game. Sean Williams then followed it up with a couple of wickets of his own.

After an hour-long delay due to rain, the post-Lunch session began with Zimbabwe desperately chasing the game. However, their pacers got some prodigious early movement and Tanaka Chivanga picked up a wicket in the very first over. He should have had two but he overstepped and Paul Stirling was left off the hook.

What a stark contrast we have seen in the afternoon session to the morning one and just how things unfolded on Day 1, it has been almost a replica of it. Ireland went into Lunch at 115/2 but are now 200/8 and still trail by 10 runs on the stroke of Tea.

50.3W

OUT! TAKEN! Tendai Chatara gets his first and Zimbabwe gets their eighth wicket with that! Chatara bowls it a bit fuller, asking Barry to have a play to it and that's what the batter did. Barry McCarthy strides out halfway and tries to have a mere push to the delivery towards his cover region but a shy bit of nipping away crushed the desire of the batter. The ball catches the outside edge of the Irish willow and travels low and straight to the slip. Sean Williams standing there gets low and takes the catch pretty easily into his safe pair of hands. Barry McCarthy who was struggling a bit, getting nicked in and out, has to depart now. That will be it for TEA on DAY 2!

50.20

Back of a length on off and middle. Andy McBrine gets behind the line and blocks it well.

50.11

On a length on leg. Andy McBrine flicks it towards square leg for a single. 200 comes up for Ireland and a round of applause from the Irish fans!

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 50 overs : 199/7

B McCarthy1 (17)

A McBrine16 (31)

S Williams5-1-11-2

49.60

Short and just outside off. Barry McCarthy hangs back and defends it solidly.

49.51

Short delivery on off. Andy McBrine goes deep into his crease and eases it towards cover for single.

49.40

Short and on middle. Andy McBrine eases it towards mid-wicket.

49.30

Fuller delivery, spins it towards leg. Andy McBrine flicks it towards square leg for no runs.

49.20

Fuller delivery on leg. Andy McBrine blocks it down.

49.14

FOUR! That should ease the situation for Andy McBrine! Short delivery outside off, spinning a bit in. Andy McBrine hangs back, and cuts it well through the cover region towards sweeper cover boundary fence for four more runs for Ireland!

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 49 overs : 194/7

B McCarthy1 (16)

A McBrine11 (26)

T Chatara11-3-28-0

48.60

Edged but didn't carry! On a length delivery just outside off. Barry McCarthy tries to play it outside off but gets nicked on the outer edge. The ball yet again falls just short of the fielder at second slip.

48.50

Short delivery on off. Barry McCarthy pats it down back to the keeper.

48.40

Back of a length around off. Barry McCarthy tries to push it but gets nicked but the ball falls short of the third man.

48.30

On a length just outside off, shaping a shy bit away from the batter. Barry McCarthy tries to block it but gets beaten by a thin air.

48.20

Fuller outside off. Barry McCarthy once again shoulders the delivery.

48.10

On a length outside off. Barry McCarthy leaves it to the keeper.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 48 overs : 194/7

A McBrine11 (26)

B McCarthy1 (10)

S Williams4-1-6-2

47.60

Short delivery on middle and spins hard down the leg. Clive Madande keeps it well for this time.

47.50

Short delivery on off and middle. Andy McBrine hangs back and defends it down.

47.41

Fuller delivery on middle and leg. Barry McCarthy flicks it towards square leg for a single.

47.30

Fuller on off. Barry McCarthy blocks it down the pitch.

47.22b

TWO BYES! Good work in the deep! Short delivery just outside off. Barry McCarthy plays it inside and misses it with thin air. Clive Madande misses the delivery to keep it and the ball rolls towards the deep third man. But the fielder of the backward point sprints down and saves the boundary. Couple of runs taken in between!

47.11

Fuller delivery just outside off. Andy McBrine plants his front foot across the line towards square leg for a single.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 47 overs : 190/7

B McCarthy0 (7)

A McBrine10 (23)

T Chatara10-2-28-0

46.60

Back of a length outside off. Barry McCarthy hangs back and pats it down towards the backward point region.

46.50

Fuller delivery outside off, nipping away. Barry McCarthy is happy to shoulder the delivery.

46.40

Fuller on stump. Barry McCarthy prods and blocks it firmly, down the pitch.

46.31

CLOSE! Back of a length on off, shaping it away from the batter. Andy McBrine tries to punch it hard but gets the connection on the inner edge. The ball passed the stumps and rolled towards short fine leg. Single taken in between.

46.20

On a length closer to the off stump. Andy McBrine blocks it outside off.

46.10

Back of a length outside off. Andy McBrine leaves it alone.

Tendai Chatara to continue...

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 46 overs : 189/7

B McCarthy0 (4)

A McBrine9 (20)

S Williams3-1-4-2

45.60

Short of a length trying to angle it in from outside off, Barry McCarthy rocks back and punches it away to point.

45.50

Fired in on a length, quicker and outside off, left alone by Barry McCarthy.

45.40

Fuller outside off. Barry McCarthy pats it towards point.

45.30

Appeal once again but it looks like a slight inner edge has saved Barry McCarthy! Fuller deliver and a bit quicker on off. Barry McCarthy tries to drive but gets a slight inner edge on his willow, thumps his pads and the ball parries towards the cover region.

Barry McCarthy walks out to bat next.

45.2W

OUT! CASTLED! Not this time says Sean Williams! This man is on a mission! Short delivery on off and middle, a bit more fuller than the last delivery, drifted in and this one turns away a bit. Mark Adair yet again opens his stance and tries to pull it but gets beaten by the lack of bounce on this occasion, and the ball thrashes into the stumps. Mark Adair has to depart pretty quickly!

45.10

Short delivery on off but spins it vigorously down the leg. Mark Adair opens his stance to hit it towards deep mid-wicket but misses and thumps the upper part of his back thigh.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 45 overs : 189/6

A McBrine9 (20)

M Adair0 (2)

T Chatara9-2-27-0

44.60

Fuller once again outside off. Andy McBrine cuts it but to the man at the cover region.

44.50

Fuller outside off. Andy McBrine knocks it towards mid off.

44.40

Fuller delivery on middle and off. Andy McBrine lunges and shows the full face of his willow.

44.30

On a nagging length just outside off. Andy McBrine hangs back and eases it towards cover.

44.20

Back of a length just outside off. Andy McBrine blocks it outside off.

44.10

On a length delivery down the leg. Andy McBrine tries to flick but misses.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 44 overs : 189/6

M Adair0 (2)

A McBrine9 (14)

S Williams2-0-4-1

43.60

Nicely tossed up on the off stump line, Mark Adair solidly blocks it off towards cover-point.

43.50

Nagging length on the stumps, gripping a bit as well, Adair gets squared up but manages to block it off on the off side.

Mark Adair is the new man in.

43.4W

OUT! TAKEN! The change has worked for Craig Ervine and his men as Sean Williams does his job! The delivery is right on the length just outside off, spinning it away from the batter. Paul Stirling prods halfway and tries to drive it but gets nicked on the outer edge. The ball flies towards the slip and the skipper makes no mistake to snaffle it smartly to his left. Paul Stirling got a lifeline when he was just on one run but fails to capitalize on it!

43.31

Short and on middle Andy McBrine flicks it towards mid-wicket for a single.

43.20

Fuller and on pad. Andy McBrine flick it towards mid-wicket fr no runs,

43.12

Short and just outside off. Andy McBrine past the delivery towards cover region and gets a brace.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 43 overs : 186/5

P Stirling22 (62)

A McBrine6 (11)

T Chatara8-1-27-0

42.60

Fuller and on middle, angles in. Paul Stirling flicks it towards mid-wicket.

42.50

Fuller on middle and leg. Paul Stirling nudges it towards mid-wicket.

42.41

GOOD EFFORT AT COVER! Fuller delivery on off, and shaping it away. Andy McBrine cuts it and cuts it hard to pass the cover fielder but the fielder dives to his left and makes a stop. The fielder parries the delivery towards his left, the batters took a single.

42.31

Once again, back of a length just outside off. Paul Stirling stays back, and knocks it towards deep cover for another run.

42.22

On a length just outside off. Paul Stirling stands tall and punches it towards sweeper cover and calls for a double.

42.10

Appeals around, but the Umpire says nothing! Fuller delivery, angles in down the leg. Paul Stirling tries to flick it but misses and thumps his pad.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 42 overs : 182/5

P Stirling19 (57)

A McBrine5 (10)

S Williams1-0-1-0

41.61

Short delivery, around off. Paul Stirling hangs back and punches it towards cover. The fielder fumbles a bit and gets a single.

41.50

Short one, outside off. Paul Stirling knocks it towards point.

41.40

Flatter one, outside off. Paul Stirling punches it outside off.

41.31b

BYE! Short delivery down the leg. Andy McBrine tries to flick but misses again. Clive Madande fails to collect once again and the batters take a bye this time.

41.20

Short one now, angling it down the leg. Andy McBrine tries to flick but misses. The keeper parries it further towards short fine leg but the batters didn't take a single.

41.10

Fuller on middle. Andy McBrine eases it towards this leg side.

Time for some spin as Sean Williams is brought into the attack.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 41 overs : 180/5

P Stirling18 (54)

A McBrine5 (7)

B Muzarabani14-3-37-2

40.60

Fuller and on the wicket. Paul Stirling players it outside off.

40.50

On a length, shape it towards leg. Paul Stirling punches it towards cover.

40.44b

FOUR BYES! Extra, extras and extras! Good-length delivery down the leg. Paul Stirling flicks but misses. The ball flies miles away from the keeper, Clive Madande and yet again four more runs for the Irish men.

40.30

Back of a length on leg. Paul Stirling tucks it towards square leg.

40.20

Fires a short one, on middle and leg. Paul Stirling tries to hook it but the ball flies over his helmet.

40.10

Ouch! Paul Stirling has a blow around his left shoulder but is okay with continuing! On a length delivery on middle and shaping it in. The delivery has some extra bounce and Paul was not ready for it. He plays it below the line and gets a hit.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 40 overs : 176/5

A McBrine5 (7)

P Stirling18 (48)

R Ngarava11-0-53-0

39.62

On a length outside off. Andy McBrine hangs back and drives towards sweeper cover for another couple of runs. This is good running between the wicket!

39.52

Fuller delivery on middle and leg. Andy McBrine flicks it away through mid-wicket region and gets a couple fo runs

39.40

Good-length delivery on middle and off. Andy McBrine plants his front foot halfway to block it down but misses the line. Gets beaten on the inner edge and gets a hit at the lower stomach. He is looking good to play!

39.31

Fuller delivery outside off. Paul Stirling strides out and drives it towards sweeper cover for a single.

39.20

Play and a miss! The fuller delivery is just outside off, there is no movement on this delivery. Paul Stirling tries to block it and gets beaten on the outer edge.

39.11

Fuller delivery, just outside off, swinging a bit out. Andy McBrine pushes it towards the cover region for a single.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 39 overs : 170/5

P Stirling17 (46)

A McBrine0 (3)

B Muzarabani13-2-37-2

38.60

On a length, outside off, shaping in. Paul Stirling leaves it as well.

38.50

On a length outside off. Paul Stirling plants his front foot and lifts his bat high to leave it alone.

38.41b

BYE! On a length down the leg. Andy Balbirnie leaves it alone, Clive Madande fails to keep again and the batters gets a free run.

38.33

Full-length delivery now just outside off. Paul Stirling lunges and drives it gently to the right of the mid off fielder. Tanaka Chivanga has a chase and makes a diving stop at the boundary line. The batter completes the triple.

38.20

Play and a miss! Back of a length outside off and swinging it away. Paul Stirling swings it hard but misses with a big gap.

38.10

Hard-length delivery outside off, no swing this time. Paul Stirling thought the ball would attack him, so he plays it inside but gets beaten on the outer edge.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 38 overs : 166/5

A McBrine0 (2)

P Stirling14 (41)

R Ngarava10-0-47-0

37.60

Good length, nagging just outside off. Andy McBrine stays deep into the crease and dabs it down outside off.

37.50

Fullish delivery on middle and leg to the left-hander. Andy McBrine flicks it towards the short mid-wicket fielder for no runs.

37.41

Hard-length delivery on leg. Paul Stirling goes deep into his crease and tucks it towards square leg for a single to rotate the strike.

37.30

Good length around off. Paul Stirling pushes it towards the cover region for no runs.

37.20

On a length on off and shaping a shy bit away from the batter. Paul Stirling punches it straight to the man at the cover region.

37.10

Starts off banging a short delivery on leg and middle. Paul Stirling hangs back and pats it down towards short mid-wicket.

Andy McBrine comes out to the middle.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 37 overs : 165/5

L Tucker0 (1)

P Stirling13 (37)

B Muzarabani12-2-34-2

36.6W

OUT! LBW! Gone first ball! Blessing Muzarabani gets two wickets in two balls and the complexion of the first innings has changed yet again. Muzarabani pitches the ball up on the stumps and gets it to move a bit in the air, Lorcan Tucker tries to lean ahead and flick it away but plays all over the ball and gets hit on the pads. There is a loud appeal for LBW and the finger does go up. A golden duck for Tucker and Ireland are now 5 down for 165!

DRINKS! Refreshments are being served to the players. The Zimbabwean bowlers had a better hold on the game than before after lunch. Tanaka Chivanga's early burst was stellar and he smothered the Irish batters. But cricket isn't one man's game, other bowlers also have to pull their socks and try nipping the ball in and out from the three sticks, on top of that the extras that they are providing are a bit messy as well. On the flip side, Peter Moor has played some exceptional cricket but had to walk towards his dugout just before the drinks. Also, Lorcan Tucker walks out to bat now.

36.5W

OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Blessing Muzarabani finally gets his due and he will be delighted to send the in-form batter back to the hut. Muzarabani bowls a spicy short ball right at the batter and Peter Moor gets all cramped up. The delivery is well directed and Moor cannot fend it away and only manages a thin edge down to the keeper. Clive Madande moves nicely to his left and takes a fine catch as Moor walks back on 79. Just like Prince Masvaure, Moor will feel that the hundred was there for the taking and he has missed out on it. Ireland are now 155/4, trailing by 45 runs.

36.40

Excellent take behind the stumps from Clive Madande this time. Banged in well short over the stumps and this one flies over the head of Peter Moor and only one-bounce for the over is called.

36.30

Back of a length and around the stumps, Peter Moor blocks it off.

36.20

Was that a catching opportunity? A few players have their hands on their heads but the overall reaction indicates that the ball fell short. Back of a length around off and shooting up off the deck, Peter Moor hops and cuts it down to the right of short cover where Dion Myers makes an excellent diving stop.

36.10

Back of a length around off, Peter Moor presses onto the back foot and blocks it down to covers.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 36 overs : 165/3

P Stirling13 (37)

P Moor79 (100)

R Ngarava9-0-46-0

35.60

Another short ball that is banged in down the leg side and Paul Stirling lets it go.

35.51b

Clive Madande lifts his hands up ion frustration as he spills another one and the 50-run stand is up between these two. Effort ball, banged in short but well down leg and the keeper fumbles it down to fine leg as the players collect another bye.

35.40

Short of a length and outside off, Moor hangs on the back foot and angles the ball away towards backward point.

35.30

Slightly back of a length again around off, Peter Moor covers the line of the ball and defends it with a straight bat.

35.20

Back of a length over off and middle, Peter Moor hops and defends it off.

35.21nb

No ball! Banged in short and down the leg side but Ngarava has overstepped and a no ball is called.

35.14

FOUR! Just too full and wide outside the off stump, bread and butter for Peter Moor as he creams the ball past covers for yet another boundary.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 35 overs : 159/3

P Stirling13 (36)

P Moor75 (94)

B Muzarabani11-1-34-0

34.64

FOUR! Lacking a bit of control there Muzarabani as he drifts the ball down the leg side and it just keeps angling down leg. Paul Stirling seems to have missed the flick as the ball goes down to fine leg for a boundary. It is given as runs though.

34.50

Good length again and in the channel outside off but not tight enough to make the batter play at it. Stirling makes another leave.

34.40

Good length outside off stump and just cutting back in a bit, Paul Stirling shoulders arms.

34.30

Prodigious movement as the ball went past the bat! Back of a length and outside off, Paul Stirling with a big swoosh across the line but he misses again.

34.20

Excellent delivery! Muzarabani pitches the ball up in the channel around off and gets it to shape away after pitching, Paul Stirling looks to play at it but the ball zips past the outside edge.

34.10

Dug in short and well outside off, a bit of a spongey bounce on offer there. Paul Stirling looks to fetch and pull but is nowhere closet to the ball.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 34 overs : 155/3

P Moor75 (94)

P Stirling9 (30)

R Ngarava8-0-41-0

33.64

FOUR! Lovely shot! Nice and full outside off, Peter Moor plants his front leg across and cracks the drive through cover-point for a boundary.

33.50

Off the thigh pad! Short of a length angling it onto the hips, Peter Moor gets a bit cramped as he looks to pull and the ball lobs up off the thigh pad towards short square leg. Joylord Gumbie takes the catch and politely enquires about a wicket but the umpire turns it down.

33.40

Good length around off and angled back onto the stumps, Moor gets on the front foot and blocks it off.

33.30

On a fuller length outside off and angling back in, Peter Moor looks to play at it but is well beaten.

33.21

Ooh...almost carried that one! Good length on the legs, Paul Stirling looks to tuck it away but ends up flicking it just to the left of Dion Myers at backward square leg. The ball lands short and goes through as the batters get a single.

33.13

Begins from around the stumps and swings the ball back in from well outside off stump. Peter Moor stays compact and punches it through the cover region for three runs. The 150 comes up for Ireland and Moor moves into the 70s.

Richard Ngarava joins the attack yet again.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 33 overs : 147/3

P Stirling8 (29)

P Moor68 (89)

B Muzarabani10-1-30-0

32.60

Length ball around off, Paul Stirling again goes after the ball that is not there to be driven and plays it straight to Dion Myers at short covers.

32.50

Back of a length and outside off, left alone for the keeper to collect.

32.42

The outfield has certainly slowed down after the rain. Pitched up on the stumps, Stirling takes the front leg out and drives it firmly to the left of mid off but the ball plugs and it will be two runs added to the Irish total.

32.30

Top delivery! On a hard length and not far away from the off stump line, the ball goes through quickly off the deck with some extra bounce and Paul Stirling plays inside the line of that one.

32.20

This is fired in well down the leg side, on a length and the keeper has to spring across to his left to collect that one.

32.10

Pitched up in the channel around off and seaming away late, well watched by Stirling who makes a comfortable leave.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 32 overs : 145/3

P Moor68 (89)

P Stirling6 (23)

T Chivanga9-2-31-3

31.60

Hard length over off and middle, Peter Moor tucks it away in front of square leg for no runs.

31.52

This is bowled well short and outside off, Peter Moor leans onto the back foot and almost ramps the ball away past backward point for another couple of runs.

31.40

Ooh...the extra bounce! Hits the deck hard bowling it over middle and leg, this one shoots off the deck but Peter Moor does well to keep it out off the shoulder of the blade.

31.30

Fuller in length, wide of the off stump and angling back in, Moor shoulders arms at that one.

31.22

Short ball outside off, Peter Moor stays on the back foot and gets on top of the bounce before cutting it away past point for a couple of runs more.

31.12

On a hard length outside off, Moor hangs back and just caresses the ball wide of the man at covers and races back for the second run. Good running!

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 31 overs : 139/3

P Stirling6 (23)

P Moor62 (83)

B Muzarabani9-1-28-0

30.60

Good-length delivery, just sliding down the leg side and Stirling misses his flick. Ireland are 139/3, still trail by 71 runs.

30.50

On a slightly dragged length around off, Paul Stirling is tentative to play at it and blocks it with hard hands in front of point.

30.44

FOUR! SHOT! That will make Stirling feel a lot better. Fractionally short and wide, Stirling with a trademark drive off the back foot and he creams it in front of point for a boundary.

30.30

Good length again and on the stumps, Paul Stirling watchfully defends it out.

30.20

Wow, Joylord Gumbie is lightning quick at a deepish forward short leg. Good length around the top of off and angling back in, Paul Stirling blocks it to the leg side and is momentarily out of his crease and Gumbie almost instantly fires in a throw at the batter's end but misses. Stirling was scampering there.

30.10

On a hard length, wide of the off stump and shaping away, Paul Stirling shoulders arms at it.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 30 overs : 135/3

P Moor62 (83)

P Stirling2 (17)

T Chivanga8-2-25-3

29.60

Banged in halfway down the pitch and over middle stump, Peter Moor simply ducks under it and these sort of deliveries aren't going to do any damage here for Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe have now given away 40 runs in extras, staggering!

29.50

Another short ball, angled in at the body, Peter Moor hops and manages to tuck it down in front of short square leg where the fielder shows some sharp work.

29.40

Back of a length and around off stump, Peter Moor hops back and blocks it off on the off side.

29.30

Even shorter now and over the stumps, Peter Moor ducks under it well.

29.20

Well bowled and equally well played by Peter Moor. A good short ball around off and middle and this one jumps off the deck, Moor hops and manages to keep the ball down on the off side.

29.21wd

WIDE! Trying to put in some extra effort but Tanaka Chivanga falls over and serves it short and well wide of the off stump. No need to play at that one.

29.14lb

Given as leg byes! Good length on the pads and going down leg, Peter Moor misses the flick and the ball goes off the pads down to fine leg for four leg byes. At this rate, the extras might just become the highest-scorer for Ireland here!

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 29 overs : 130/3

P Stirling2 (17)

P Moor62 (77)

B Muzarabani8-1-24-0

28.60

Length ball, spilled down the leg side and going further away, this time the keeper moves early and manages to get to it.

28.50

BEAUTY! Muzarabani pitches the ball up just around the off stump line and gets the ball to jag back in a mile after pitching. Paul Stirling looks to block off the front foot but the ball zips through the gap between bat and pad and misses the top of the stumps by hardly a couple of inches.

28.40

Hard length around middle, slanting back in sharply, Paul Stirling crouches and tucks it to short mid-wicket.

28.31b

Another one that is dragged down well down the leg side and the keeper is unable to collect it. The ball rolls down to fine leg and the batters pick up another bye.

28.20

Just short of a good length and in the channel, Muzarabani gets the ball to nip away with some extra bounce and Peter Moor is forced to play inside the line of that one.

28.10

An attacking short ball that is angled in but the starting line is around leg stump and Peter Moor is unbothered by it.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 28 overs : 129/3

P Stirling2 (14)

P Moor62 (74)

T Chivanga7-2-24-3

27.60

Another play and a miss from Stirling! Short of a length and outside off, Stirling goes for the pull but the ball isn't short enough and sneaks under the bat.

27.50

Much better from Tanaka Chivanga and Paul Stirling's feet aren't going anywhere at the moment. Nagging length in the channel around off and nipping away, Stirling tries to play it from the crease but is beaten past the outside edge.

27.40

Banged in short now and again it is quite wide of the off stump, Paul Stirling plays a loose shot as he chases after the ball butis beaten.

27.30

Either too straight or too wide and this time it is the latter. On a hard length and pushed well wide of the off stump, Paul Stirling isn't bothered in playing at that one.

27.21lb

Back of a length but again it is on the pads, Peter Moor misses the tuck and the ball goes off his thigh pad past square leg for a leg bye.

27.14b

FOUR BYES! This is borderline dreadful now from the pacers and the keeper is not having a good day behind the stumps either as that should have been stopped. Banged in short and down the leg side, Peter Moor leaves it alone as Clive Madande casually goes down to his left with one glove and the ball hits the left hand and rolls away to the fine leg fence.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 27 overs : 124/3

P Stirling2 (10)

P Moor62 (72)

B Muzarabani7-0-24-0

26.62

Just short of a good length and around leg stump, Paul Stirling fends it away past the man at backward square leg and picks up a couple of runs to get off the mark.

26.50

Hard length in and around middle stump, Paul Stirling manages to block it off.

26.40

Missing leg stump! Good length, swinging back into the pads, Paul Stirling falls over as he looks to flick and misses, getting rapped on the pads.

26.30

Length ball around off stump, not quite full to drive and Paul Stirling miscues the shot as he leans forward.

26.20

An absolute pearler of a delivery from Blessing Muzarabani and Paul Stirling has no idea what happened there. Tad fuller, angled onto the off pole but nips away sharply after pitching and leaves Stirling bamboozled.

26.11b

Another bye and that's just too many extras from the Zimbabwe pacers. Banged in well short and down the leg side, keeps angling further away and the keeper barely manages to get a glove on it. The batters pick up a bye.

Blessing Muzarabani will bowl from the other end.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 26 overs : 121/3

P Stirling0 (5)

P Moor62 (71)

T Chivanga6-1-24-3

25.60

On a hard length outside off, Paul Stirling hits the ball in front of the man at point and that ends a fascinating first over post the extended break.

25.50

On a fuller length and outside off, Paul Stirling gets on the front foot and drives it firmly to covers.

25.55wd

FIVE WIDES! Now, that is a howler of a delivery from Tanaka Chivanga. Full and almost lands beyond the cut strip down the leg side, the ball keeps going away and rolls into the fine leg fence.

25.40

Short of a length, down leg and angling back across as Paul Stirling shoulders arms and gets inside the line.

25.41nb

NO BALL! Would you believe it? Tanaka Chivanga seems to have snaffled the wicket of Paul Stirling with an absolute ripper but he has overstepped and the celebrations in the Zimbabwean are short lived. A nasty short ball from Chivanga and he bangs it in over the stumps and catches Stirling completely off guard. The ball shoots up and takes the shoulder of the bat before going straight to Dion Myers at gully. He makes no mistake but the replays show that Chivanga plants the heel of his front foot on the line when he made first contact with the popping crease.

25.30

Good length, bowled wide of the off stump and angling it in, Paul Stirling shoulders arms at it.

Paul Stirling comes out to the middle.

25.2W

OUT! LBW! Caught right in front of the stumps and a perfect start for Zimbabwe after the break. Tanaka Chivanga floats the ball up on the pads and gets it to swing back across the right-hander. Harry Tector takes a step across to the off side and plays all around the ball getting hit on the pads right in front of middle and leg stump. There is a huge appeal and the umpire's finger goes up right away. Chivanga has three to his name and so do Zimbabwe.

25.10

Some swing right away for Tanaka Chivanga. This is pitched up outside off and shapes away from the right-hander, Harry Tector leaves it alone.

We are back for the post-Lunch session on Day 2! The umpires and the players of Zimbabwe stride out to the middle and so do the batters for Ireland. It will be the pairing of Peter Moor and Harry Tector to resume their stay at the crease. Tanaka Chivanga will get proceedings underway with the ball for Zimbabwe. Also, this session will now last till 9.10 pm IST (3.40 pm GMT) and the final session will begin at 9.30 pm IST (4 pm GMT). Let's play...

... DAY 2, SESSION 2 ...

UPDATE 6.55 pm IST (1.25 pm GMT) - Right then, we finally have an official update regarding the resumption of play. The post-Lunch session will begin at 7.10 pm IST (1.40 pm GMT) which is almost an hour-long delay from the actual scheduled time. We have lost a big chunk of time on Day 2 but at least we still have a lot to look forward to as the afternoon Sun continues to beat down in Stormont. So, grab a cup of coffee and join us soon for the resumption of the Irish innings.

UPDATE 6.38 pm IST (1.08 pm GMT) - The visuals from the ground look much brighter and the rain has stopped and the ground staff are at work. According to a few sources, the umpires have scheduled an inspection for 6.50 pm IST (1.20 pm GMT). Stay tuned as we should get some official news regarding the resumption of play soon.

UPDATE 6.23 pm IST (12.53 pm GMT) - It is still raining in Belfast but it is decently bright and sunny in Birmingham where England and West Indies are battling it out in the 3rd Test match. While we wait for updates in this game, you can simply switch tabs and keep an eye on our coverage of that game. West Indies lost 3 wickets in the first session on Day 1 but have begun the second session strongly. Don't be gone for too long though as we will provide regular updates on the resumption of play in this game.

UPDATE 6.10 pm IST (12.40 pm GMT) - The post-Lunch session that was due to start in a couple of minutes' time, has been officially delayed due to rain. The visuals from the ground show that there is still some rain around in Belfast and we might be in for an extended delay here. Stay tuned as we bring you latest updates from the ground.

UPDATE 5.54 pm IST (12.24 pm GMT) - Uh, oh! IT had gotten a lot darker a few minutes back and the covers are now coming on as the rain starts to fall. If the rain persists, we might be a delayed start to the afternoon session. Stay tuned for further updates.

Right then, Ireland are 115/2 and are just 95 runs away from Zimbabwe's first innings total which they will look to surpass in the post-Lunch session itself. Zimbabwe will really need to tighten their lines as there were too many extras in that first session and we might see the introduction of spin as the visitors look to make inroads in this game. Join us at 6.12 pm IST (12.42 pm GMT) for the afternoon session. The two-minute delay is for the first session finishing a couple of minutes late.

What we have seen so far on Day 2 isn't dissimilar to what happened on Day 1 and even though Ireland are scoring at a much more brisk pace, they have lost a couple of wickets which Zimbabwe didn't lose yesterday and then we all know how the tables turned in the post-Lunch session. The key for the hosts will be Peter Moor and the others will look to bat around him now as he is well-set and has a good grasp of the conditions.

Devastated after a shoddy end to Day 1 of the Test match, Zimbabwe would have looked to regroup ahead of Day 2 and make amends in the field. However, the front-line seamers weren't quite on the mark and while Tendai Chatara showed some control, Richard Ngarava was put away with ease. Even Blessing Muzarabani failed to make an impact and it was Tanaka Chivanga who picked up a couple of wickets and saved the session somewhat for Zimbabwe.

A commanding session with the bat from Ireland and they have put themselves in pole position in this Test match by knocking off 115 runs in one session. It was a beautiful morning out in Belfast at the start of Day 2 and the pitch didn't have any demons in it. The Irish openers made full use of the excellent conditions and scored freely in order to put all pressure back on Zimbabwe.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 25 overs : 115/2

P Moor62 (71)

H Tector4 (18)

R Ngarava7-0-33-0

24.60

Bangs another short one, angling into the body, Peter Moor hangs back and tucks it towards short mid-wicket for no runs. That will be LUNCH on DAY 2.

24.50

Fires short one on the stumps. Peter Moor goes deep into his crease and blocks it down the pitch.

24.41b

BYE! Richard Ngarava missing his line once again! Hard length, sprays down the leg, wayward away from the batter. Harry Tector leaves it alone. The keeper leaps to his left and puts some gloves to it but fails to keep it properly. He parries it away further and the batters decided to take a run.

24.30

On a length once again, around off. Harry Tector blocks it firmly towards cover region for no runs.

24.20

Back of a length on the stump. Harry Tector dabs it down the track.

24.11

On a length on leg. Peter Moor flicks it towards deep square leg for a single.

Runs Scored 9 Runs

Score after 24 overs : 113/2

H Tector4 (15)

P Moor61 (68)

T Chivanga5-1-18-2

23.64

FOUR! SHOT! On a length outside off. Harry Tector lunges and extends his arms to reach the delivery and drives it from the middle of his willow through the cover region to get four runs in order to get off the mark.

23.61nb

NO BALL! Short delivery down the leg side. Harry Tector has nothing to do with it as the ball flies over his helmet and the Umpire singles it a no ball but it is for overstepping and not height!

23.50

Hard length, on middle and leg. Harry Tector misses the glance and thumps his upper thigh pads.

23.40

Fuller but angles down the leg. Harry Tector tries to flick it for insurance but misses.

23.30

On a length outside off. Harry Tector tries to defend it but gets beaten on the outer part of his willow.

23.20

Back of a length outside off. Harry Tector drops his stance and leaves the delivery.

23.14b

FOUR BYES! Extras are on the way! Good-length delivery, but miles away from the leg stump. Harry Tector lifts his willow to leave the delivery and once again no chance for the keeper to keep it.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 23 overs : 104/2

P Moor61 (68)

H Tector0 (8)

R Ngarava6-0-32-0

22.62

Fuller and on the pads. Peter Moor flicks it towards deep mid-wicket for a couple of runs.

22.51b

BYE! On a length delivery, outside off. Harry Tector shoulders arms at the delivery. The ball bounces off from the keeper and the batter gets a single.

22.40

Play and a miss! Back of a length just outside off. Harry Tector plays it inside the line and gets beaten.

22.41wd

WIDE! Good length, wide outside off and nipping it away. Harry Tector drops his stance and gains a bonus run for the team.

22.30

Hard length, outside off, shaping away. Harry Tector stays in his stance and leave it alone.

22.21

Back of a length on the stumps. Peter Moor flicks it towards the square leg for a single.

22.10

Back of a length on off. Peter Moor  tucks it down.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 22 overs : 99/2

H Tector0 (5)

P Moor58 (65)

T Chivanga4-1-13-2

21.60

Oh... that was very well bowled! Everyone in the ground thought it was game over for Harry Tector! This one is on a length just outside off but it angles back in towards the batter and pretty late as well. Harry Tector lifts his willow to leave it but the ball just bounces over the off stump. That was a risky leave!

21.50

On a length delivery on off. Harry Tector knocks it outside off.

21.40

Nicely bowled! Good length and in the channel around off, Harry Tector seems to play at it but tries to leave it halfway through the shot. The ball nips away and beats the bat.

21.30

This is bowled into the pitch and outside off, going away from the right-hander as Harry Tector makes another good leave.

21.20

On a good length, a bit wide of the off stump and swinging further away, Harry Tector watches it well and leaves it alone.

Harry Tector is the new batter in.

21.1W

OUT! TAKEN! Tanaka Chivanga is taking the game to the opposition all by himself! Beautiful line and length which results in another wicket for Chivanga! This one is fuller just outside off, shaping it away from the batter. Curtis Campher fails to understand the assignment and tries to block it back to the bowler. The ball catches the outer edge of the batter's willow and the ball Ioops towards the second slip. Sean Williams dives to his left and fumbles the catch but keeps his composure to eventually grab it while on the ground.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 21 overs : 99/1

P Moor58 (65)

C Campher8 (16)

R Ngarava5-0-28-0

20.60

Good-length delivery on off, nipping it away. Peter Moor tries to blocks it down the track but gets beaten on the outer edge.

20.50

Bangs a short delivery on off and shaping it away from the batter. Peter Moor arches back to leave it alone.

20.41

On a length on middle and off. Curtis Campher pulls it a bit uppishly towards square leg for a single.

20.30

On a length and over the stumps, Curtis Campher presses back and blocks it down the deck.

20.22

Back of a length hanging outside off. Curtis Campher tries to push it towards the cover region but gets nicked on the outer edge. The ball rolls towards deep backward point and the batters get a couple of runs.

20.10

On a length on leg and middle. Curtis Campher eases it back to the bowler.

Richard Ngarava (4-0-25-0) is back on.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 20 overs : 96/1

P Moor58 (63)

C Campher5 (12)

T Chivanga3-0-13-1

19.60

Hard length, outside off. Peter Moor leaves it alone.

19.54

FOUR! Easy four runs for Peter Moor as well as Ireland! Tanaka Chivanga needs to try something else over here! Fuller delivery on middle and leg, Moor glances it beautifully. The ball travels away far left of the keeper, absolutely no chance for him to catch that.

19.40

Hard-length delivery on off. Peter Moor tucks it down towards the short square leg for no runs.

19.30

Play and a miss! Back of a length once again on off, nipping it away. Peter Moor plays it inside the line and gets beaten on the outer edge once again.

19.20

Back of a length outside off, swinging a shy bit away. Peter Moor gets beaten on the outer edge.

19.10

Fullish delivery around off. Peter Moor pushes it outside off for no runs.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 19 overs : 92/1

C Campher5 (12)

P Moor54 (57)

B Muzarabani6-0-22-0

18.60

Fires a short one now over off stump and angles it in, Curtis Campher leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

18.50

On a length outside off. Curtis Campher is more than happy to leave it.

18.41b

BYE! On a length down the leg. Peter Moor leaves it alone. The keeper fumbles a bit to keep it and the batters took the advantage.

18.34

FOUR! CLASSY! This is excellent cricket by Peter Moor! Blessing Muzarabani bowls fuller outside off. Peter Moor was waiting for the delivery to arrive as he planted his front foot towards the delivery, leaned over it and drove it smoothly through the cover region like a hot knife through the butter.

18.20

On a length outside off. Peter Moor sees the delivery of off his radar and chooses to leave it to the keeper as well.

18.10

Fires a short one around off. Peter Moor drops his stance to leave it alone.

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 18 overs : 87/1

P Moor50 (53)

C Campher5 (10)

T Chivanga2-0-9-1

17.63

FIFTY for Peter Moor! He was desperate to have those three runs and have the half-century into his stats! He lifts his bat up to the crowd where his family members are witnessing his fabulous knock! This was fuller on middle and leg. Moor flicks it towards deep mid-wicker region and scampers for three runs.

17.50

On a length outside off. Peter Moor hangs back and punches it but straight to the man at the cover region.

17.40

On a length once again outside off. Peter Moor punches it towards point for no runs.

17.30

Back of a length outside off. Peter Moor hangs back to knock it outside off.

17.20

Back of a length outside off. Peter Moor leaves it to the keeper.

17.14

FOUR! BEAUTIFULLY PLAYED! Fullish delivery outside off. Peter Moor covers the stump and cuts it away towards deep point fence for four more runs.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 17 overs : 80/1

C Campher5 (10)

P Moor43 (47)

B Muzarabani5-0-18-0

16.60

Good-length delivery on off. Curtis Campher get towards his line and defends it outside off.

16.50

Fuller delivery outside off. Curtis Campher stays at his stance and leaves it alone.

16.40

On a length outside off. Curtis Campher is happy to leave it to the keeper.

16.34

FOUR! SHOT! Fuller delivery down the leg. Curtis Campher looks to flick but gets the connection from the inner part of his willow. The keeper fails to stop it and it will be four runs for Campher.

16.24b

FOUR BYES! On a length on leg shaping it in once again. Curtis Campher flicks it for insurance but the ball travels wayward outside the leg stump. The keeper leaps to his left but no chance to save that. A free boundary for the Irish men!

16.10

Fuller delivery and shaping it in towards the wicket. Curtis Campher looks to clip it but misses.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 16 overs : 72/1

C Campher1 (4)

P Moor43 (47)

T Chivanga1-0-2-1

15.61

Fires a short one. Curtis Campher tries to pull it but gets a top edge. The ball lands in the no man's zone towards the square leg region. They take a single.

15.50

Lands an away swinger, on a fuller length and outside off, Curtis Campher offers no shot.

15.40

Back of a length outside off. Curtis Campher lifts his willow to let the keeper collect it.

15.30

Fuller delivery and swings away pretty hard. Curtis Campher leaves it alone.

Curtis Campher walks in at number 3.

15.2W

OUT! TAKEN! Tanaka Chivanga delivers the first wicket! Tanaka Chivanga bowls it fuller on leg. Andy Balbirnie like everytime tries to flick it with no  real footwork but the ball elevated has the batter put bottom hand to it. The ball flies flat towards the square leg region where Joylord Gumbie was ready to lean down and take the catch safe into his hands. Andy Balbirnie has to depart after a having a decent knock!

15.11

Short of a length outside off. Peter Moor knocks it towards his off side to get a single.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 15 overs : 70/0

A Balbirnie19 (44)

P Moor42 (46)

B Muzarabani4-0-14-0

14.60

Fuller on middle and leg. Andy Balbirnie with no such footwork eases it towards short mid-wicket.

14.50

On a length, outside off, shaping a shy bit in. Andy Balbirnie is happy to leave it as well.

14.40

GOOD LEAVE! Back of a length just outside off niping in. Andy Balbirnie watchfully covers the stump and lifts his bat to leave it to the keeper.

14.31

Full delivery now, on middle, shaping it in. Peter Moor strides halfway and glances it towards deep square leg for a single.

14.20

On a length once again, but this time far from the leg stump. Peter Moor leaves it alone.

14.10

Back of a length on middle and leg. Peter Moor hangs back and drops his willow to defend the ball, but the delivery drifts down leg.

DRINKS BREAK! Wow, what a first hour of play on Day 2 for Ireland and they have blown away a huge chunk of Zimbabwe's first innings total in just 14 overs. The pitch really looks pristine to bat on but the Zimbabwean bowlers have been guilty of losing their lines and lengths. Peter Moor has punished the opposition bowlers and is looking in sublime touch.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 14 overs : 69/0

A Balbirnie19 (41)

P Moor41 (43)

T Chatara7-1-23-0

13.64

FOUR! Beautiful shot from Andy Balbirnie! Chatara bowls it wider on off and on a length, Andy Balbirnie opens his bat face and drives it to the right of point for a boundary.

13.50

Continues to keep it tight around middle and off, and on a length, Andy Balbirnie gets closer to the line and blocks it straight back to the bowler.

13.40

On top of off, and on a nagging length, Andy Balbirnie gets a good stride in and blocks it back to the bowler.

13.30

Keeps it straight and on a length, over middle and leg, Andy Balbirnie taps it in front of mid on.

13.20

Angling in, on middle and leg, Andy Balbirnie eases it to mid on.

13.11

Lands it on a length and outside off, Peter Moor pushes it to covers for a single.

Runs Scored 10 Runs

Score after 13 overs : 64/0

A Balbirnie15 (36)

P Moor40 (42)

B Muzarabani3-0-13-0

12.60

End of an eventful over! Full and on middle and off, Andy Balbirnie blocks it down straight.

12.54b

FOUR BYES! Oh dear, that one just went through too. On a length and around leg. The ball nips back in away from the keeper for another boundary called byes.

12.42

Fuller and on off, Andy Balbirnie looks to push it through the line and gets an outside edge past slip cordon got a couple of runs.

12.34b

FOUR BYES! Full and sliding down leg, Andy Balbirnie looks for the flick but misses. The ball just angles further down leg to beat the keeper for a boundary.

12.20

That was nipped back a mile! On a length and around off, the ball nips back in sharp and cuts Balbirinie to halves.

Andy Balbirnie seems to be in a bit of pain as the ball hit him on the right glove and his fingers were stung pretty bad. The physio is out to have a look and he applies some magic spray. Balbirnie seems fine and we are good to continue.

12.10

Oh dear, what just happened? Clive Madande has DROPPED a catch, and his debut isn't shaping up to be the best one yet. Blessing Muzarabani digs it short and hits the deck hard, just outside off, with the incoming angle. Andy Balbirnie stuck with two minds gets his bat straight up to keep it out. The ball hits him on the right glove and balloons to the right of the keeper. Clive Madande dives to his right and outstretches his right mitt to do all the hard yards. He lands to his left and the ball just pops out. A lucky escape for Andy Balbirnie but how big can it cost for Zimbabwe?

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 12 overs : 54/0

A Balbirnie13 (30)

P Moor40 (42)

T Chatara6-1-18-0

11.61

On a length and on off, Andy Balbirnie blocks it to mid off.

11.50

Errs in line and lands it well outside off and on a length, Andy Balbirnie leaves it alone.

11.40

Keeps it tight on top of off, and on a length, Andy Balbirnie blocks it right under his eyeline.

11.30

On off and on a length, Andy Balbirnie gets closer to the line and blocks it to mid off.

11.20

Fuller this time and on off, Andy Balbirnie drives it on the full but straight to mid on.

11.10

Angling in, on a short of a length and over middle, Andy Balbirnie gets right behind the line and eases it to mid on.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 11 overs : 53/0

P Moor40 (42)

A Balbirnie12 (24)

B Muzarabani2-0-11-0

10.62

Lands it on off and on a length, Peter Moor with just a mere push dissects the gap at covers for a couple more runs.

10.50

On off, and on a length, Peter Moor cuts it to backward point.

10.40

Much tighter line and length this. Angles it into the right-hander on a good length and over middle and leg, Peter Moor opens up his stance and blocks it back to the bowler.

10.30

Fuller again and on off, Peter Moor pushes it to cover.

10.20

On a length and on off, Peter Moor pushes it to the off side.

10.14

FOUR! Zimbabwe pacers haven't been able to maintain the consistency of bowling tight lines and the runs are just flowing. Too full and outside off, Peter Moor creams his drive through covers for four more.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 10 overs : 47/0

A Balbirnie12 (24)

P Moor34 (36)

T Chatara5-1-17-0

9.60

Angles it in, on middle and off, Andy Balbirnie stabs it down the deck and towards mid off. After 10 overs, Ireland are 47/0 and the trail by 163 runs.

9.52

Full again and on off, Andy Balbirnie gets his front leg out and guides it through covers for a brace.

9.41

Full and on off, Peter Moor gets a good stride out and pushes it past point for a single.

9.31

On a short of a length and on off, Andy Balbirnie punches it behind the square on the off side for a single.

9.21

Goes full and onto the pads, Peter Moor flicks it through square leg for a single.

9.10

Angles it in, on a good length and on off, Peter Moor presses ahead and blocks it right under his eyes.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 9 overs : 42/0

A Balbirnie9 (21)

P Moor32 (33)

B Muzarabani1-0-5-0

8.60

Hits the hard length, just outside off, Andy Balbirnie gets closer to the line and stabs it in front of mid off off the upper half of his bat.

8.50

Continues to keep it outside off, and on a length, Andy Balbirnie offers no shot.

8.40

On a length and outside off, Andy Balbirnie holds his bat up and makes the leave.

8.34

FOUR! Classic shot! Muzarabani bowls it on a length and just outside off, Andy Balbirnie quickly presses back and punches it past point for a boundary.

8.21

Gets it closer to the off-stump line and on a length, Peter Moor drops it in front of point and squeezes a single.

8.10

Starts from over the wicket and hits the deck hard on a short of a length and outside off, Peter Moor leaves it alone.

Blessing Muzarabani comes in as the first bowling change for Zimbabwe.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 8 overs : 37/0

A Balbirnie5 (17)

P Moor31 (31)

T Chatara4-1-12-0

7.60

Nicely bowled! Hits the fuller length just outside off and gets the ball to nip away. Andy Balbirnie is drawn into the shot but watches the ball closely and leaves it alone.

7.50

Serves it on a length and outside off, Andy Balbirnie leaves it alone.

7.40

Full and on middle and leg, Andy Balbirnie tucks it to mid-wicket.

7.41wd

WIDE! Wayward on off and on a shorter length. The ball moves further away off the deck and the umpire calls it a wide.

7.30

On a good length and outside off, Andy Balbirnie extends his arms and looks to punch it square on off but gets another inside edge back onto the deck off his pads.

7.20

Pulls the length back and lands it around off, Andy Balbirnie looks to push it through off but gets an inside edge to square leg.

7.10

Comes from over the wicket and attacks the stumps, on a fuller length, Andy Balbirnie clips it to square leg.

Bowling change? No, Tendai Chatara to continue...

Runs Scored 11 Runs

Score after 7 overs : 36/0

P Moor31 (31)

A Balbirnie5 (11)

R Ngarava4-0-25-0

6.64

FOUR! Back-to-back boundaries to end the over. Ireland racing away now. Ngarava lands it outside off and on a length, Peter Moor looks to crunch it through off but gets a thick outside edge past the third slip for four more.

6.54

FOUR! Shot of the day so far! On a length and outside off, Peter Moor frees his arms and cracks his drive through point for a boundary.

6.40

An appeal for LBW but it seemed to be missing leg with the incoming angle. Ngarava comes from wider on the crease and hurls it on a nagging length and into middle and leg, Peter Moor tries to keep it out but is beaten onto his pads by the shape coming in.

6.30

Comes from around the wicket and hits the length right, outside off and gets the ball to nip back in sharp. Peter Moor leaves it alone.

6.21

Full and onto the pads, a hint of movement off the deck, Andy Balbirnie flicks it to square leg for a single.

6.12

Lands it full and on off, Andy Balbirnie with full presentation of the face of the bat just pushes his drive, straight past the bowler and to the right of mid off. Blessing Muzarabani from mid off gives it a chase and cuts it off for just two.

Runs Scored 8 Runs

Score after 6 overs : 25/0

P Moor23 (27)

A Balbirnie2 (9)

T Chatara3-1-11-0

5.60

On a better line just around off, and on a good length, Peter Moor hops back and blocks it to the off side.

5.54

FOUR! Chatara digs it short in length and outside off, Peter Moor gives him the same treatment to find the fence. Punches it to the right of point for four more runs.

5.40

Outside off and on a length, Peter Moor is more than happy to leave it alone.

5.30

Much better from Tendai Chatara! Goes straighter and on middle, Peter Moor covers the line and drops it in front of mid-wicket.

5.20

Hits the length right this time and around off, Peter Moor taps it to cover.

5.14

FOUR! Tendai Chatara gifts this one with width on off and on a shorter length asking to be hit. Peter Moor hops back and punches it through point for a boundary. Moor is looking very confident at the crease.

Runs Scored 11 Runs

Score after 5 overs : 17/0

P Moor15 (21)

A Balbirnie2 (9)

R Ngarava3-0-14-0

4.61

An expensive over from Richard Ngarava after a strong start! Ireland rack 11 runs off it. Keeps this full and onto the pads, Peter Moor clips it through square leg for a single.

4.52

Goes full and on off, Peter Moor opens the bat face and steers it past backward point for a couple of runs.

4.42

Fuller and on the pads, Peter Moor flicks it behind square of the wicket on the leg side for two more runs.

4.34

FOUR! Top shot! Richard Ngarava loses his line and length for once and pays the price. Overpitches it outside off, Peter Moor leans ahead and cuts it past point for the first boundary of the innings.

4.22

Drops the length just short of a good length and on middle and leg, Peter Moor tucks it through square leg for a couple more runs.

4.10

Nice line and length to start! Lands it on a good length and angles it away outside off, Peter Moor has a feel for it but plays it inside the line.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 4 overs : 6/0

A Balbirnie2 (9)

P Moor4 (15)

T Chatara2-1-3-0

3.60

On a length and angling into the right-hander on middle and leg, Andy Balbirnie tucks it to the right of square leg.

3.53

A mere push for three good runs! Tendai Chatara overpitches it and just outside off, Peter Moor leans on it and pushes it through cover for three runs.

3.40

On a length and over middle, Peter Moor eases it to the leg side.

3.30

Probably the first off that has moved off the deck! Chatara lands it on a nagging length just outside off and the ball nips back in beating the inside edge of Peter Moor's bat as he tries to block it out on the front foot.

3.20

Straighter in line and into the stumps, Peter Moor leans ahead and blocks it straight.

3.10

Continues from over the wicket and goes fuller and on off, Peter Moor taps it to cover.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 3 overs : 3/0

A Balbirnie2 (8)

P Moor1 (10)

R Ngarava2-0-3-0

2.60

On a length and on off, Andy Balbirnie solidly defends it off his backfoot in front of mid off.

2.50

Bangs it on a length and on top of off, Andy Balbirnie gets right behind the line and stabs it down the track.

2.40

Angling it away, outside off and on a length, Andy Balbirnie leaves it alone.

2.32

On a good length and over middle, Andy Balbirnie clips it through square leg region for a couple of runs to get off the mark.

2.20

Attacks the pads and hurls it on a hard length, Andy Balbirnie is caught in the crease as he tries to keep it out and makes no connection. The ball goes off the inside edge and rolls down the deck off his pads.

2.10

On a tad fuller length, on off, Andy Balbirnie pats it in front of cover.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 2 overs : 1/0

P Moor1 (10)

A Balbirnie0 (2)

T Chatara1-1-0-0

1.60

On a back of a length and outside off, Peter Moor hops closer to the line but then holds his bat high and leaves it alone. A maiden over to start with for Tendai Chatara!

1.50

Fuller and into the pads, Peter Moor flicks it off his pads but finds the man at mid-wicket.

1.40

Straighter this time and on middle, Peter Moor nudges it in front of square leg.

1.30

Errs in line again and lands it down leg, on a fuller length, Peter Moor tries to flick it away but misses. The keeper dows really well to dive to his left with an outstretched left hand to make the stop.

1.20

Goes full and into the pads, around middle and leg, Peter Moor drops his bat down and jams it out in front of mid-wicket.

1.10

Comes from over the wicket and serves it on a good length but down leg. Peter Moor leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

Tendai Chatara to share the new ball with Richard Ngarava.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 1 overs : 1/0

A Balbirnie0 (2)

P Moor1 (4)

R Ngarava1-0-1-0

0.60

Lands it full and angling away, outside off, Andy Balbirnie with no foot movement reaches out attempting to slash it through covers but misses out on making any connection. A solid start from Richard Ngarava! Ireland are 1/0 at the end of first over.

0.50

Goes wider on off and on a length, Andy Balbirnie holds his bat up and leaves the first one alone.

0.41

First runs on the board for Peter Moor and Ireland! Ngarava serves it on a length and on off, Peter Moor with soft hands taps it in front of point and gets a quick single.

0.30

Hits the deck hard, on a length and over middle and off, Peter Moor gets a good stride in and taps it to the leg side in front of mid-wicket.

0.20

Gets the line closer and hurls it just outside off and on a length, Peter Moor leans on it and blocks it to the off side.

0.10

Ngarava steams from over the wicket and lands it fuller in length and angling it away, outside off, Peter Moor watches the ball and makes the leave.

Commentary

All in readiness for the action to begin on Day 2! It will also be the start of a new innings and the umpires have taken their places. The players of Zimbabwe gather up in a huddle and spread out on the field. It will be Peter Moor and skipper Andy Balbirnie who will open the innings for Ireland. Richard Ngarava has the new ball in hand and raring to go. Let's play...

The Roy Torrens Bell that was inaugurated yesterday, is back in focus and it is a legend of Irish cricket, Kevin O'Brien who rings the bell to signal the start of Day 2's play. This bell will now be carried across grounds in Ireland for future international matches as well.

Just a few minutes left now for Day 2 to begin and 98 overs are scheduled to be bowled in the day to make up for the loss of overs on Day 1. We will also have a slightly longer afternoon session with Tea being taken a little later than scheduled. Let's now have a look at the pitch report as well - The pitch does not have a lot of grass and there was no lateral movement but the key thing to look out for will be the footmarks which are starting to come off. Mentions that Ireland could blook to bat all day today and we can expect spin on Day 3 and 4.

We are still about 20 minutes away from live action on Day 2 and it looks like we will get a scheduled start thanks to a rain-free morning thus far in Belfast. Let's now move away from cricket a bit and talk about the 2024 Paris Olympics. A few of the sporting events have already gotten underway but officially, the 33rd Olympic Games gets underway today. The opening ceremony is scheduled to start at 11 pm IST (5.30 pm GMT) and it sure should be a spectacle to watch. Here's wishing all the athletes taking part in the 2024 Olympics, the best of luck.

It is certain that both teams will strive to apply themselves better today. The visitors, with a relatively inexperienced side, will come hard at the experienced Ireland batters. But can they bring out their absolute best and restrict the Irish lineup to a total lower than their own? Or will Ireland capitalize on this small first-innings deficit and build a strong lead? We are moments away from finding out as Day 2 action is not far away.

Zimbabwe, after a strong start with the bat, would have been disappointed with how things unfolded in the second half of the day. Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure had exceptional outings, but the rest of the batting lineup faltered. Sean Williams, with his aggressive approach, got off to a promising start but lost his wicket to spin, which triggered the collapse. They would have loved to bowl a few overs to end the first day's play, however, with 210 runs on the board, they will now look to make the most of the new ball, especially after observing the effective lines used by the Irish bowlers.

After a hard day’s work and a decent effort in the first session on Day 1, Ireland came back stronger and reaped significant rewards in the afternoon session, tilting the game back in the balance. The final session was the icing on the cake for the home side as they successfully triggered a collapse, bundling out Zimbabwe for just 210 runs. Fortunately for Ireland, rain brought an early halt to the day's play in the last hour, sparing them from having to bat in challenging overcast conditions.

Hello and welcome to Day 2 action of this One-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe, coming to you from the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast, the newest addition to the list of venues hosting Men's Test cricket. After an exhilarating first day of cricket, the stage is perfectly set for an exciting Day 2.

... DAY 2, SESSION 1 ...

Right then, that is it from Day 1 of the One-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe in Belfast and it sure was an intriguing day of Test cricket. All eyes will be on Day 2 and on how Ireland fare with the bat in their first innings. The wicket certainly looks good to score runs on but there is something in it for the bowlers which will make things even more interesting. Without the weather playing spoilsport, Day 2 will begin on Friday at 3.30 pm IST (10 am GMT) but you can join us sooner for the build-up. Cheers!

Barry McCarthy, the Irish pacer is now down for a chat. He says the two openers batted beautifully for Zimbabwe and as a bowing unit they could have been a bit fuller and could have brought the outside edges to play which was then discussed during Lunch. Adds that bowling seems exciting when the ball moves a bit and bounces well and they knew they needed one to maybe break through. Talks about the extended spells and says it feels good for as long as the ball is coming out well from the hands. Says Andy McBrine got the important wicket of Sean Willams and it was a nice call from the skipper to give him the ball. He appreciates Mark Adair for his 200th international wicket and the way he bowled on home soil. Further says that it feels great to play a test match and he was on the sidelines in the 2018 game against Pakistan and the team was really excited heading into this game. Concludes that they will look to carry on the momentum and bat well tomorrow.

Prince Masvaure, the star batter for Zimbabwe, is down for a chat. He says he played like he did a few years ago and it felt good to perform the way he did. Says that he goes a long way back with Joylord Gumbie and it was nice to have a good start for the side. Further says that Ireland's bowlers fought back really well and came back strong towards the end. Says Test cricket is all about keeping fit mentally and he made sure he kept things nice and simple to have done well. Concludes that they will take the score and with the kind of bowling they have they should be able to do well too but with Ireland being a strong side they will be ready to put in the hard yards.

In the final session, we saw Andy Balbirnie make use of spin as Andy McBrine was given an extended spell even after Sean Williams took him apart on a couple of occasions but McBrine's persistence was a huge turning point in the context of the first innings. McBrine went on a wicket-taking spree and sent back 3 batters as the likes of Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy cleaned up the tail without much of a fuss. Zimbabwe will be gutted to not put on a good score and also about the fact that they didn't get to bowl at all on Day 1 as they could have exploited the evening conditions.

Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy returned with improved precision in the second session, and their tighter lines and lengths yielded three crucial wickets, including that of Joylord Gumbie. The disciplined bowling effectively stemmed the flow of runs, allowing the Irish pacers to finish the session on a high note with the score reading 153/3.

Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure provided Zimbabwe with a strong start, skillfully navigating the early threats from the Irish pacers. The bowlers, slightly off their mark initially, allowed the batters to settle and build momentum. By the end of the first session, Gumbie and Masvaure had accumulated 85 runs without losing a wicket, setting a solid foundation for their innings.

Right then, not the way anyone would have wanted to end the first day's of play in this historical first Test match between Ireland and Zimbabwe but after a fairly decent day weather-wise, the rain has prevailed in the final hour or so and we get to see 71.3 overs of play on Day 1. Let's now quickly recap what happened in Zimbabwe's first innings.

UPDATE 10.40 pm IST (5.10 pm GMT) - It seems like the crowd is making their way out of the ground and this might be it for Day 1. The visuals are still pretty gloomy and the ground staff are seen covering more of the ground. A minute or so later, we have official news and PLAY HAS BEEN ABANDONED ON DAY 1!

UPDATE 10.28 pm IST (4.58 pm GMT) - As per a few sources, the umpires have scheduled an inspection for 10.35 pm IST (5.05 pm GMT). However, if they feel that play cannot get started by 10.45 pm IST (5.15 pm GMT), then that will be it for Day 1 and if not then Ireland will have to come out to bat for about 15 or so minutes under unfavorable conditions. Stick around as an official word is not far away.

UPDATE 10.19 pm IST (4.49 pm GMT) - The rain has stopped and we can see a rainbow in the background. The ground staff are already working around the clock to get things ready for play. The covers are still firmly on and it will probably take a while to get the ground ready given there's not much of sunlight at the moment. Stick around for more updates.

UPDATE 10.09 pm IST (4.39 pm GMT) - Right then, we should have had the players out by now but the rain has picked up in intensity and more parts of the ground are now under covers. It is also quite dark and gloomy which gives the feeling that this could be a long delay and with about just 50 minutes left in the day's play, we might not even see play resume on Day 1. Let's still hope for the best and hope that we do see Ireland's innings get underway before the day ends. Stay tuned for further updates.

UPDATE 10.03 pm IST (4.33 pm GMT) - Well then, a few minutes after the players leave for the change-over break, a few drops of rain have started to fall and it is heavy enough for the covers to come on. The ticker on the screen shows that play will resume at 10.07 pm IST (4.37 pm GMT) but if the rain persists, we might have a bit of a delay. Stay tuned for more updates on this.

Having restricted Zimbabwe to 210 runs, Ireland find themselves in a favorable position. With the pitch offering little assistance, the batters are likely to have a relatively smooth time navigating the end of the day's play. Ireland will aim to get through the initial overs unscathed and finish the day on a high note. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe will be eager to make early breakthroughs to shift the momentum and bring the game back into balance. Stick around as the second innings come to you in a bit.

Prince Masvaure held firm for Zimbabwe, with Sean Williams adopting a counter-attacking approach as they began the third session. However, Curtis Campher’s breakthrough, dismissing Masvaure for 74, marked the turning point. Andy McBrine then took center stage, claiming consecutive wickets of Sean Williams and Clive Madande with successive deliveries. This dramatic sequence initiated a collapse that saw Zimbabwe tumble from a promising 143/3 to a precarious 210 all out. Andy McBrine remained the pick of the bowlers for Ireland with his 3 wickets and so did Barry McCarthy as Mark Adair picked up a couple of wickets as well.

The first innings has concluded, with Ireland orchestrating a dramatic collapse to limit Zimbabwe to a modest total of just 210 runs. Zimbabwe will undoubtedly be disheartened by the way they squandered the substantial advantage that they had established by the end of the first session.

71.3W

OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Barry McCarthy finishes the innings with three to his name! Zimbabwe encounter a collapse of enormity to be bundled up for 210 runs on the board. McCarthy comes from wider on the crease from over the wicket angle and lands it on a hard length around middle. Gets the ball to shape away off the deck drawing Tendai Chatara to play at it. Chatara looks to keep it out with the straight bat but the movement off the deck catches an outside edge and goes straight into the mitts of Lorcan Tucker behind the stumps.

71.21

Attacks the stumps, on a fuller length, Tanaka Chivanga drives it on the full to long off for a single.

71.10

Starts from over the wicket and lands it full and into the pads, Tanaka Chivanga gets his bat ahead and pushes it to mid on.

Mark Adair has been given a break and Barry McCarthy comes back in as Ireland look to clean things up quickly here.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 71 overs : 209/9

T Chivanga6 (18)

T Chatara0 (9)

A McBrine13-2-37-3

70.61

Drags the length fractionally short and on the pads, Tanaka Chivanga tucks it past short leg for a single.

70.50

Fires this full and on leg, Tanaka Chivanga pads it out to short leg.

70.40

Loops it full and on off, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it to the left of the bowler.

70.30

Skids this one through on a fuller length and on middle, Tanaka Chivanga tucks it to the on side.

70.20

Full again and around off, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it well.

70.10

Goes full and on off, Tanaka Chivanga gets a good stride out and pushes it back to the bowler.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 70 overs : 208/9

T Chatara0 (9)

T Chivanga5 (12)

M Adair18-1-49-2

69.60

Comes from around the stumps on the final delivery and angles it across the right-hander, Tendai Chatara looks to block but is beaten past the outside edge.

69.50

Pitches the ball up now on off stump and looks to angle it back in, Tendai Chatara blocks it nicely off the front foot.

69.40

This is banged in quite short and outside off, Tendai Chatara hops and leaves it alone.

69.30

On a hard length and around off stump, Tendai Chatara blocks it off the front foot to covers.

69.21

Bowled back of a length and outside off, Tanaka Chivanga dabs the ball away from his body and gets it behind the man at backward point for a quick single.

69.10

Beaten! Nagging length on off stump and gently seaming away, Tanaka Chivanga looks to play at it but the ball zips past the outside edge.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 69 overs : 207/9

T Chatara0 (5)

T Chivanga4 (10)

A McBrine12-2-36-3

68.60

This is floated up full and outside off, Tendai Chatara plants his front leg across and plays it away in front of point. Just a single off that over.

68.50

On a fuller length around off, Tendai Chatara with another good block.

68.40

Tossed up around the off stump, Tendai Chatara eases the ball away towards covers.

68.30

This is fired in full and outside off, Tendai Chatara manages to squeeze it out.

68.20

Nice and full around off stump, played away towards cover-point.

68.11

Tossed up on the stumps, Tanaka Chivanga with a big heave across the line but he miscues the shot badly over the cover region and picks up a single.

Tendai Chatara is the last man to bat for Zimbabwe.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 68 overs : 206/9

R Ngarava5 (13)

T Chivanga3 (9)

M Adair17-1-48-2

67.6W

OUT! CAUGHT! The change of angle has worked beautifully for Mark Adair and he gets his 201st international wicket. Adair comes from around the wicket now and floats the ball up on the legs, looking to shape it across. Richard Ngarava leans on to flick but closes the bat face early and ends up lifting it towards extra cover where Matthew Humphreys takes a simple catch and Ireland are on verge of bowling Zimbabwe out.

67.50

Full and outside off, Richard Ngarava gets on the front foot and nails the cover drive but it's well fielded at covers by Andy McBrine

67.40

On a fuller length but well wide of the off stump, Richard Ngarava goes chasing after it but fails to lay a bat on it.

67.30

Pitched up but down the leg side and Richard Ngarava misses his flick.

67.24

FOUR! A bit of Calypso flair on the shot from Richard Ngarava. Dug in quite short and at the body, Ngarava lifts the back leg and rolls his wrists nicely over the ball before pulling it away in between deep square leg and fine leg for a boundary.

67.10

Pitched up on the off stump line, Richard Ngarava defends it nicely under his eyes.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 67 overs : 202/8

T Chivanga3 (9)

R Ngarava1 (7)

A McBrine11-2-35-3

66.62

Tossed up on a length and on the pads, Tanaka Chivanga dabs the ball around the corner and gets it down to fine leg for a couple of handy runs.

66.50

Tossed up around off, Tanaka Chivanga keeps it out on the off side.

66.40

Tossed up quicker on middle and this one turns back in sharply, Tanaka Chivanga is pegged back and plays all around the ball getting an inside edge onto the pads.

66.30

Floated up on a nagging length and on middle, Tanaka Chivanga leans on and plays it back to the bowler.

66.20

On a length and outside off, Tanaka Chivanga strokes it away to covers.

66.10

Held back, on a length and outside off, Tanaka Chivanga with a big swipe across the line but he only connects with thin air.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 66 overs : 200/8

T Chivanga1 (3)

R Ngarava1 (7)

M Adair16-1-44-1

65.61

Too straight from Aadair, on a length and Tanaka Chivanga manages to flick it down to fine leg for one. The 200 does come up for Zimbabwe.

65.50

Ooh! That was agonizingly close to the off pole! Mark Adair goes wide of the crease and bowls it on a good length outside off, the ball swings back in a long way as Tanaka Chivanga watches it all the way and makes a leave. However, the ball swings back in a bit too much and whizzeds past the outside edge.

65.41

Good length on the pads, flicked away nicely towards deep square leg for a single and Richard Ngarava is off the mark.

65.30

Back of a length over leg stump, cutting across the left-hander, Richard Ngarava looks to block but misses and the ball goes off the body and gets stuck in the pads. The umpire calls a dead ball and Ngarava is able to hand the ball back to the bowler.

65.20

Play and a miss! Putched up well outside off and swinging further away, Richard Ngarava goes for an expansive cover drive but is well beaten.

65.10

On a hard length on off stump, extracting some extra bounce as well, Richard Ngarava decides to leave it late but it is the right decision.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 65 overs : 198/8

T Chivanga0 (1)

R Ngarava0 (3)

A McBrine10-2-33-3

64.60

Flighted delivery, on a length and turning it on to the stumps, Tanaka Chivanga blocks it off.

Tanaka Chivanga walks out to bat next for Zimbabwe.

64.5W

OUT! EDGED AND TAKEN! Andy McBrine is on a roll her and picks up his third wicket inside the last two overs. This is very nicely bowled as McBrine tosses the ball up on the fourth stump line and draws the batter forward. Blessing Muzarabani has to reach for it as he looks to drive but is beaten in the flight and the outside edge is found. Paul Stirling at first slip dives low to his left and takes a fine catch with both hands and Muzarabani has to walk back as well. Zimbabwe might not even get to 200 here!

64.44

FOUR! Nicely bowled but equally well played. Flighted up around off stump, Muzarabani has to reach ahead but manages to get under it and lifts it over mid on for a boundary.

64.30

Dragged length around off stump, Blessing Muzarabani rocks back and plays it away in front of point.

64.20

On a fuller length and around off, Blessing Muzarabani squeezes it out on the off side.

64.10

That one almost went straight to the hands! Tossed up on a length and outside off, Blessing Muzarabani plays a checked drive and ends up chopping the ball in front of the man at cover-point.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 64 overs : 194/7

R Ngarava0 (3)

B Muzarabani0 (4)

M Adair15-1-42-1

63.60

Good length on middle and leg, angling back in, Richard Ngarava with a good-looking block off the front foot.

63.50

Pitches it right up on the stumps, getting it to shape back in as well, Richard Ngarava just about manages to dig the ball out on the leg side.

63.40

Pitched up around off, getting it to slant across the left-hander, Richard Ngarava plays well inside the line of this one.

Richard Ngarava walks out to bat at number 9 for Zimbabwe.

63.3W

OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Mark Adair picks up his first wicket of the game and also his first Test wicket at his home ground, a proud moment for him. Adair makes good use of the short ball and digs it right in over the off stump line. Brian Bennett is already on the front foot but looks to rock back and pull and is hurried on. The ball takes a bit of a top edge and goes straight through to the keeper. Lorcan Tucker makes no mistake behind the stumps and Zimbabwe are now reeling at 194/7.

63.20

Pitched up on off stump, shaping it away, Bennett solidly blocks it off towards cover-point.

63.10

Bowled back of a length and around off stump, Brian Bennett hops onto the back foot and keeps it down on the off side.

63.11wd

Oh, that's wayward from Mark Adair! Dug in well short and even more down the leg side, well collected by the keeper and it is called a wide for line and not height.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 63 overs : 193/6

B Muzarabani0 (4)

B Bennett8 (25)

A McBrine9-2-29-2

62.60

Flighted delivery around off stump, Blessing Muzarabani gets his front leg ahead and manages to block it off. A double-wicket maiden for Andy McBrine and this innings has completely turned on its head.

62.50

Nicely tossed up on the off stump again, Blessing Muzarabani with a solid block off the front foot.

62.40

Tossed up again around off, quite full and Blessing Muzarabani pushes it away on the off side.

62.30

No hat-trick! Tossed up on off stump, turning it in, Blessing Muzarabani with a good lunge to block it off.

Blessing Muzarabani walks out to bat at number 8 for Zimbabwe and will face the hattrick ball from Andy McBrine.

62.2W

OUT! CAUGHT! Would you believe it? A golden duck on debut for Clive Madande and he seemed to be out of his depth there, an outrageous shot to play first ball. Andy McBrine switches to over the wicket for the right-hander and tosses the ball up around off stump. Madande decides to skip down the pitch and go big first ball but doesn't get to the pitch of the ball and tries to hold his shape. However, Madande only manages to lift the ball up towards mid off where Craig Young takes a simple catch and McBrine is on a hat-trick.

Clive Madande walks out to bat next for Zimbabwe. The groundstaff is out there to mark out the popping crease and the players use this short break to rehydrate themselves.

62.1W

OUT! EDGED AND GONE! Andy McBrine does have the last laugh in his battle with Sean Williams and the southpaw cannot believe it. This is a ripper of a delivery from McBrine though, an off-spinner's dream. Comes from around the wicket, tosses it up around off and gets the ball to drop and spin away from the left-hander. Williams is forced to play at it and cannot quite get well forward, and gets an outside edge that goes sharply past the keeper. Paul Stirling at first slip takes a fine catch to his right and that will be the end of the free-flowing Wiliams.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 62 overs : 193/4

B Bennett8 (25)

S Williams35 (40)

M Adair14-1-41-0

61.60

Good length, starting on leg stump and this one keeps angling down leg.

61.50

Loose, too loose from Brian Bennett. Short and wide, there to be hit, Bennett doesn't move hie feet and just throws his hands at it but gets beaten on the outside edge.

61.42

Short of a length and at the batter, Brian Bennett crouches a bit and short-arm jabs it to the right of mid-wicket for a couple of runs.

61.30

Goes wide on the crease now, pitching it up on off and trying to angle it away, Bennett gets nicely onto the front foot and punches it away to covers.

61.20

Good length on the fourth stump line and nipping away, Bennett with another assured leave.

61.10

Adair comes back into the attack and pitches it up in the channel outside off, angling it away. Bennett makes a watchful leave.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 61 overs : 191/4

S Williams35 (40)

B Bennett6 (19)

A McBrine8-1-29-0

60.60

Tossed up on the stumps, Sean Williams opts to block this one out. Williams has played McBrine with ease apart from that one false shot and maybe, it is time for Ireland to make a change in the bowling attack.

60.54

FOUR! Andy McBrine drops the length short over middle, Sean Williams gets in position quickly and pulls it firmly off the back foot well in front of mid-wicket and picks up a boundary.

60.40

On a good length and over off, Sean Williams plays it from the crease and just behind point again.

60.30

Fractionally short over off and middle, Williams presses back and looks to push it down to mid on but the bowler scampers across and makes the stop.

60.20

Bowled flatter and around off, Williams goes on the back foot and defends it just behind point.

60.10

Nicely tossed up around off, quite full as well, Sean Williams blocks it towards point.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 60 overs : 187/4

B Bennett6 (19)

S Williams31 (34)

C Campher11-2-33-1

59.60

Pitched up on off stump and angling in, Bennett looks to cover drive against the angle of the delivery but miscues it towards mid on.

59.50

Slightly pitched up around off, Bennett's feet stay rooted to the crease as he jams it out with hard hands towards the point region.

59.40

Good length in the channel outside off and nipping away, Bennett shoulders arms at it.

59.30

Pitched up on the off stump line, Brian Bennett gets halfway forward and drives it away to extra cover.

59.21

Back of a length and angling away, Williams waits back and glides the ball down to deep backward point for a single.

59.10

Back of a length and outside off, Sean Williams stands tall and chops the ball in front of point.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 59 overs : 186/4

B Bennett6 (15)

S Williams30 (32)

A McBrine7-1-25-0

58.60

Tossed up on a much straighter line at the stumps, Brian Bennett blocks it off.

58.50

Was there and edge on it? Andy McBrine feels there was but not much of a reaction from anyone else. Fired in full and quick around off, Brian Bennett looks to play off the back foot but gets beaten on the outside edge and Lorcan Tucker cannot get down in time to his right to pouch the ball and it hits him on the pads instead.

58.40

No run, just a mere push. But no space for a run.

58.30

Over the wicket now for the right-hander and pushed through quicker around off, Brian Bennett looks to drive but misses.

58.21

In the air...safe! Andy McBrine tosses the ball up on middle, drifting it in and induces a false shot from Sean Williams. Williams sits down for the slog sweep but one hand comes off the handle and the ball gets lobbed up over mid-wicket. Barry McCarthy there runs back over his shoulder but fails to get under it and the ball falls safely. A single is taken.

58.10

On a good length, angling it onto the off stump line, Sean Williams backs away and pushes it to the right of covers.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 58 overs : 185/4

B Bennett6 (11)

S Williams29 (30)

C Campher10-2-32-1

57.60

Hard length around off stump, Bennett tentatively dabs the ball down towards point.

57.54

FOUR! Now, that was a confident shot but Curtis Campher really gifted that boundary away. Just too full and wide of the off stump, Bennett smashes the cover drive square of the wicket and the ball rockets to the fence.

57.42

Bennett is off the mark in Test cricket and that will certainly calm the nerves a bit. Overpitched on the fifth stump line, Bennett plants his front leg across and drives it wide of covers for a couple of runs.

57.30

Hard length around the top of off, looking to nip it away, Brian Bennett stands tall and blocks it to the off side.

57.20

A touch fuller and straighter on the stumps, Brian Bennett does get someway forward and plays it to the right of the bowler.

57.10

Top delivery! Nagging length in the channel around off and this one just nips away after pitching, Brian Bennett is caught on the crease and pokes at it but gets beaten on the outside edge.

Runs Scored 12 Runs

Score after 57 overs : 179/4

S Williams29 (30)

B Bennett0 (5)

A McBrine6-1-24-0

56.64

FOUR! Another boundary to end the over and 12 runs come off it, Andy McBrine is just stood in disbelief. Flighted delivery on the stumps, Williams sits down and brings out the slog sweep, drilling it flat and wide of square leg for a boundary.

56.52

Flatter and on the legs, flicked away in front of square leg for a couple of runs more.

56.44

FOUR! Sean Williams chancing his arm every now and then against the spinner and he does like to dominate spin. Tossed up on the stumps, Williams just hits through the line and pumps the ball over wide mid on for a boundary.

56.32

Fractionally short and outside off, Sean Williams rocks back and latches onto the width before cutting the ball wide of deep point for a couple of runs.

56.20

Drags the length back now and bowls it around off, Sean Williams presses back and dabs it down wide of the keeper.

56.10

Floated up on a shade fuller length around middle, Sean Williams blocks it off the front foot.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 56 overs : 167/4

B Bennett0 (5)

S Williams17 (24)

C Campher9-2-26-1

55.60

This time, Brian Bennett does get bat to ball but finds the fielder and it will be a wicket-maiden for Curtis Campher. Pitched up wide of the off stump, Bennett reaches out and drives it straight to covers.

55.50

On a hard length and wide of the off stump now, left alone by Bennett.

55.40

Nice and full again around off, swinging away, Brian Bennett leaves this one alone.

55.30

Edged again but short again! Lovely line and length from Curtis Campher as he bowls this one full and in the channel around off. Brian Bennett looks to play off the front foot but is tentative and gets an outside edge that falls short of the keeper.

55.20

Almost a golden duck on debut for Brian Bennett. Short of a length and around off, Bennett gets caught on the crease and ends up pushing at it with hard hands. The ball pops up off the shoulder of the bat and lands in front of the gully fielder.

Brian Bennett is the next man to walk out to bat for Zimbabwe.

55.1W

OUT! CAUGHT BEHIND! Curtis Campher does finally get his man and Prince Masvaure will be very disappointed with that. Campher pitches the ball up a bit on leg stump and gets it to angle down the leg side, Masvaure looks to tickle it away but gets a bit of glove on the ball. The ball is always going away from the keeper but Lorcan Tucker does well to dive to his right and grasp it with both gloves. An excellent knock from Masvaure but the 100 was there for the taking for him.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 55 overs : 167/3

S Williams17 (24)

P Masvaure74 (151)

A McBrine5-1-12-0

54.60

Flighted delivery in and around off stump, Williams keeps it out on the off side.

54.54

FOUR! One of the shots of Day 1! Nicely tossed up around off stump, Sean Williams shimmies down the track and makes a bit of room before creaming it through covers for a boundary.

54.41

Flatter this time and still short around off, Masvaure pushes it away off the back foot in front of covers for a quick single.

54.30

Slightly shorter around off, Masvaure uses the depth of the crease to cut but can't get it past backward point.

54.20

On a dragged length and on off stump, Prince Masvaure defends it off the back foot.

54.10

Tossed up around off stump, Masvaure blocks it off.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 54 overs : 162/3

S Williams13 (22)

P Masvaure73 (147)

C Campher8-1-26-0

53.60

Banged in well short and outside off, left alone by Williams.

53.52

Fractionally short and outside off, Sean Williams cuts it firmly and in front of deep point for a couple of runs.

53.41lb

Good length on the pads, Prince Masvaure misses the tuck and the ball rolls off his pads as the players take a leg bye.

53.30

No run.

53.20

A prolonged appeal from Curtis Campher for caught behind but the umpire isn't interested. On a good length around middle and this one swings back in quite a bit. Prince Masvaure gets caught on the crease and the ball seems to go through the gap between bat and pad and seems to have brushed the pad as well on its way to the keeper. Campher feels there was an inside edge before the ball hit the pads but Masvaure survives.

53.13

Firmly struck and Matthew Humphreys gets a good hand on it too. Short and wide, Sean Williams slaps it to the right of cover-point with force and Humphreys dives across to get a hand on it. The fielder from point chases it down and saves a run for his side.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 53 overs : 156/3

P Masvaure73 (144)

S Williams8 (19)

A McBrine4-1-7-0

52.60

Flaoted up full and on the stumps, Masvaure blocks it off again.

52.50

Nicely tossed up around off and turning away a bit as well, Masvaure opts to leave this one alone.

52.40

Tossed-up delivery around off stump, Masvaure strides in and defends it off.

52.30

Pushed through quicker and fuller onto middle, Masvaure watchfully blocks it off.

52.22

Slightly shorter on the pads, worked away off the back foot and well behind square on the leg side for a couple of runs.

52.10

Gives it a nice loop and tosses the ball up around off stump, Masvaure leans on and blocks it off.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 52 overs : 154/3

S Williams8 (19)

P Masvaure71 (138)

C Campher7-1-21-0

51.60

Pitched up a bit wide of the off stump and angling away, Williams leaves it alone.

51.50

Goes full and straight now, looking to shape back in, Sean Williams digs the ball out to mid off.

51.40

Short of a length around off, not much width on offer but Sean Williams manages to cut it hard and straight to the man at covers.

51.30

Hard length around off stump, Sean Williams hangs back and taps the ball away to the man just behind point.

51.20

Late movement on offer there for Campher as this is bowled full on middle and shapes back in, Sean Williams manages to block it off.

51.11

They do eventually get the single. Bowled quite short and outside off, Prince Masvaure taps the ball wide of covers and the man there takes a tumble while making a half stop and the batters get across for one.

Who will bowl from the other end? It will be Curtis Campher!

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 51 overs : 153/3

S Williams8 (14)

P Masvaure70 (137)

A McBrine3-1-5-0

50.60

A maiden to begin proceedings after the Tea break! Shorter in length and around off, Sean Williams stays back and keeps it out on the off side.

50.50

Flighted delivery on the off stump line, Williams with a big stride ahead to block.

50.40

Slows it up a touch and drifts it in on a nagging length onto off and middle, Sean Williams has to scurry onto the back foot to keep it out.

50.30

Tossed up again on off stump, Sean Williams leans on and blocks it off.

50.20

Nicely tossed up, full and on off stump, Sean Williams gets on the front foot to defend.

50.10

Starts from around the stumps, bowling it quick and short over off, Sean Williams blocks it from his crease.

We are back for the final session of the day! The sun is out and the umpires make their way to the middle. Ireland fielders are spreading out to take the field. Both Sean Williams and Prince Masvaure are ready to resume their stay at the crease. Surprisingly it will be spin straight up to start the session as Andy McBrine is handed the ball.

... DAY 1, SESSION 3 ...

The Ireland pacers have put in a tough shift, covering many hard miles, and will be hoping that the ball starts to grip and turn in the final session, potentially bringing Andy McBrine into play. With two sessions done, Day 1 is set for an exciting finish. The final session is just moments away, so grab a coffee and get ready for the action to resume!

Craig Young then joined Barry McCarthy, continuing to apply pressure with tight bowling. Prince Masvaure reached his half-century, anchoring one end, while Dion Myers made his intentions clear of offering no shot to any delivery pitched outside off. McCarthy cleverly set him up with a series of outside-off deliveries, only to bring one back into the stumps, outsmarting Myers. The scoring rate dipped to less than 3 runs an over, and Craig Ervine struggled to find his footing. Craig Young capitalized on this, dismissing Ervine and causing Zimbabwe to slip from a strong position of 97/0 to 143/3. Sean Williams, in his short stay, has looked positive, and Zimbabwe will be counting on him to stitch a solid partnership with Prince Masvaure in the final session.

Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy began the session with renewed vigour, maintaining tight lines. McCarthy secured the prized wicket of Joylord Gumbie, cutting his debut innings short by just one run of a well-deserved half-century. Zimbabwe's momentum was further disrupted by a brief passing shower, causing a short delay but enough to force the batters to restart. The pitch, suddenly offering more assistance to the bowlers, added to Zimbabwe's challenges.

SESSION SUMMARY - 23 Overs, 68 Runs, 3 Wickets - This session truly belongs to Ireland for showcasing their remarkable comeback and reaping the rewards for their tight lines and disciplined bowling. After the first session, the ball seemed to have lost the lacquer and started doing a lot more off the deck, making batting significantly harder than it appeared earlier. However, it must be noted that Ireland's pacers did not maintain such disciplined lines and lengths in the first session, which left them slightly reeling heading into this afternoon session.

Runs Scored 7 Runs

Score after 50 overs : 153/3

P Masvaure70 (137)

S Williams8 (8)

C Young14-1-40-1

49.60

Opts to come from around the stumps for the final delivery and bowls it a lot more round arm. Outside off and angling it in, Prince Masvaure has a poke at it but gets beaten past the outside edge. That will be TEA ON DAY 1!

49.53

Much better from Sean Williams. A bit too full and outside off, Williams leans ahead and punches the ball through covers. The fielder chases it down and the batters get three runs.

49.44

EDGED AND FOUR! Craig Young pitches it up around the off stump line and draws the batter forward. Sean Williams leans on to block but gets an outside edge that goes wide of the fielder at third slip and runs away into the fence.

49.30

On a good length and in the channel around off, Sean Williams plays inside the line of this one.

49.20

BEAUTY! A shade full and around off stump, Sean Williams opts to go on the back foot to this one and just ball nips back in sharply to beat the inside edge. The ball wasn't far away from the off stump either.

49.10

Pitches the ball up outside the off stump, too wide for Williams to play at it.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 49 overs : 146/3

S Williams1 (3)

P Masvaure70 (136)

C Campher6-1-20-0

48.61

Short of a length and at the hips, Williams lifts one leg and flicks it down to fine leg for a single.

48.50

Pitched up on middle and leg, Sean Williams with a stylish flick but he again finds the fielder, this time at mid-wicket.

48.40

Back to over the wicket and bowed a tad short and wide, Sean Williams latches onto it and cuts it hard but straight to point. Williams is a free-flowing batter and won't hold back like Ervine did.

48.31

Comes from around the wicket now and bowls it short around off, Masvaure presses back and guides it away past backward point for a single.

48.31wd

This is dug in well short and outside off, sailing over the head of the batter and it si called a wide.

48.20

Play and a miss! Pitched up around off, drawing the batter forward, Prince Masvaure looks to cover drive but gets beaten past the outside edge duw to the away movement.

48.10

Hard length outside off, Masvaure leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

One southpaw replaces the other as Sean Williams strides out to bat at number 5 for Zimbabwe.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 48 overs : 143/3

C Ervine5 (32)

P Masvaure69 (133)

C Young13-1-33-1

47.6W

OUT! CAUGHT! The change of angle has worked beautifully for Craig Young and his hard work has paid off here. Young stays around the stumps and digs the ball in, angling it into the body. Craig Ervine is in no position to pull but goes after it and ends up playing a loose shot. The ball takes the top edge and flies down towards the fence just behind deep square leg. Andy McBrine settles under it well and takes a safe catch with both hands. Young is elated and a sluggish inning from Ervine comes to an end. Faced 32 balls for just the 5. Ireland going through the batting order now - 97/0 has become 143/3 for Zimbabwe.

47.50

Good length around off stump, Ervine stands tall and pushes it away towards cover.

47.40

Switches to around the wicket now and bowls it full around off stump, Craig Ervine laces a cover drive on the front foot but hits it straight to the fielder

47.31

Good effort from Lorcan Tucker behind the stumps. Shortish ball at the hips, Masvaure flicks it off the gloves and wide of the keeper who springs across and gets a bit of glove on it. The ball trickles down to fine leg and they get a single.

47.31wd

Too short! Craig Young puts in a bit more effort and bangs it in halfway down the deck over middle, Prince Masvaure ducks but the ball lobs well over him. Wide called for height.

47.20

Pitched up outside the off stump and left alone by Masvaure. This one dies on its way to the keeper.

47.10

Back of a length and over off stump, Masvaure goes on the back foot and tucks it to the left of the bowler.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 47 overs : 141/2

P Masvaure68 (130)

C Ervine5 (29)

C Campher5-1-17-0

46.61

Never in control there, Prince Masvaure but he gets away with it. Nicely pitched up at the stumps, Masvaure is late on the drive and ends up lobbing the ball to the left of mid off and picks up a single.

46.50

Pitched up around off and left alone by Masvaure.

46.44

FOUR! Good shot but probably, that should have been stopped! Pitched up outside off, Masvaure drives it on the up and holds the pose but doesn't quite time it well to the left of mid off. A tired Craig Young lunges across to his left at mid off and lets it through for a boundary.

46.31

Nice and full, getting it to angle back in sharply into the pads, Craig Ervine just about manages to flick it away down to fine leg and picks up a single.

46.20

Bowls it a lot fuller now on off stump and gets the ball to nip away, Ervine gets on the front foot and shoulders arms.

46.10

Banged in on a hard length and angled well across the off stump, left alone by Ervine.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 46 overs : 135/2

P Masvaure63 (127)

C Ervine4 (26)

C Young12-1-31-0

45.60

Good length around the top of off stump and sliding on, Masvaure makes a watchful leave.

45.50

Nicely pitched up on middle stump, Prince Masvaure gets on the front foot and firms it towards mid-wicket.

45.41

Length ball on the pads, Craig Ervine tucks it away neatly to the man at deep backward square leg and runs a single.

45.30

Pitched up on the fourth stump line and angling it across, left alone by Ervine.

45.20

On a hard length and angled well down the leg side.

45.10

Short of a length and angled in at the body, Craig Ervine awkwardly fends it away in front of square leg.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 45 overs : 134/2

P Masvaure63 (125)

C Ervine3 (22)

C Campher4-1-11-0

44.62

Pitched up on the stumps and angling back into the legs, Masvaure flicks it away to the left of the man at square leg and picks up a couple of handy runs.

44.50

Bowled on a shorter length outside off, Prince Masvaure looks to get on top of the bounce by getting on his toes but ends up mistiming the cut down in front of point.

44.40

Good length in and around the off stump line, Masvaure hangs back and plays it off the outer half of the bat to backward point.

44.30

Hard length over middle and leg, Masvaure hops and tucks it neatly to the man just in front of square leg.

44.20

Banged in halfway down the track and wide of the off stump, left alone by Masvaure.

44.11lb

Back of a length and on the pads, Craig Ervine misses the tuck and the ball goes off the thigh pads behind square leg. They pick up a leg bye.

Curtis Campher (3-1-8-0) comes back into the attack now.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 44 overs : 131/2

C Ervine3 (21)

P Masvaure61 (120)

C Young11-1-30-0

43.61

Banged in well short and over leg stump, Craig Ervine gets nicely on top of the bounce and hooks the ball down wide of fine leg for just a single.

43.50

Just short of a length over middle and leg, Craig Ervine looks to work it leg side but ends up getting a leading edge to the left of mid off.

43.40

Beaten! Pitched up on off stump, getting it to nip away, Craig Ervine gets on the front foot to block but the ball zips past the outside edge.

43.30

Nicely bowled! Hits the length hard, bowling it over off stump and gets the ball to just leave the left-hander and with some additional bounce as well. Craig Ervine does well to play inside the line of that one.

43.21

Pitched up on off and middle, Masvaure looks to block but ends up squirting it off the outside edge past the point region for a single.

43.10

On a fuller length outside off and slanting across the off stump, Prince Masvaure lets this one through to the keeper.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 43 overs : 129/2

C Ervine2 (17)

P Masvaure60 (118)

B McCarthy15-5-41-2

42.60

A maiden, the fifth of the innings for Barry McCarthy already. Hard length around off stump, Craig Ervine hangs back and dabs it down to point.

42.50

Good movement off the deck for McCarthy! On a hard length, pitching on middle and this one jags back in sharply with some extra bounce as well. Craig Ervine is completely undone and gets caught on the crease as the ball pings him around the thigh pad. Half a shout for LBW but the umpire says no.

42.40

Pitched-up delivery around off stump, Ervine gets on the front foot and drives it straight to mid off.

42.30

Slightly fuller on off, sliding back into the left-hander, Craig Ervine plays it late behind point and looks for the single but decides against it.

42.20

Hard length over middle and leg, Craig Ervine presses back and blocks it towards a straightish mid-wicket.

42.10

On a fuller length, trying to swing it back in but the starting line is in on leg stump and the ball ends up going down the leg side.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 42 overs : 129/2

C Ervine2 (11)

P Masvaure60 (118)

C Young10-1-28-0

41.61

Length ball around off, pushed away on the up through the cover region for a single.

41.50

A nice mixture here from Young as he pitches the ball up on the stumps and squares up Craig Ervine who gets a leading edge towards point.

41.40

Back of a length but a lot straighter this time and Craig Ervine is able to block this one out.

41.30

The third ball in a row that has now whizzed past Ervine's bat and this is good bowling from Young. The length is pulled back this time but the line is on off stump and Ervine fails to block it off yet again.

41.20

And again! Almost an action replay of the previous ball as Young beats the outside edge of Ervine's bat right around the top of off stump.

41.10

Beaten! Immaculate length and on a very tight line around off stump, this one slides right on and Craig Ervine is beaten past the outside edge while looking to defend.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 41 overs : 128/2

P Masvaure60 (118)

C Ervine1 (5)

B McCarthy14-4-41-2

40.60

Hard length around the top of off stump, Masvaure defends it off the back foot. The afternoon Sun now beating down in Belfast.

40.50

On a dragged length over off and middle, Masvaure gets right behind the line and makes the block.

40.40

McCarthy comes back with a bumper and bowls it over middle stump, Masvaure ducks under it well.

40.34

FOUR! Glorious from Prince Masvaure! Overpitched delivery from McCarthy around off stump, Masvaure gets well on the front foot and plays a lovely straight drive to the left of mid off and collects four runs.

40.20

Pitches the ball up and around off stump, Prince Masvaure makes yet another leave.

40.10

Just short of a good length and on a tight line on off, slanting across, Masvaure with a well-watched leave.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 40 overs : 124/2

C Ervine1 (5)

P Masvaure56 (112)

C Young9-1-27-0

39.60

Back of a length and around off stump, Craig Ervine presses back and dabs the ball down just behind point. A single off that over and after 40 overs of play, Zimbabwe are 124/2.

39.50

Bowled quite full now and at the stumps, Ervine looks to drive but gets it off the inner half of the bat in front of mid-wicket.

39.40

Back of a length and over leg stump, Craig Ervine hops and tucks it away on the leg side with soft hands.

39.30

Pitched up a bit in the channel around off and getting it to angle across, Craig Ervine makes a watchful leave.

39.21

Short again, this time around leg stump, Masvaure works it off his hips towards fine leg and the keeper quickly chases it down, keeping it down to a single.

39.10

Banged in a bit on a shortish length and angled well across the left-hander, Prince Masvaure leaves it alone.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 39 overs : 123/2

P Masvaure55 (110)

C Ervine1 (1)

B McCarthy13-4-37-2

38.61

Ends the over well does Barry McCarthy! Keeps it on a length and on off, Prince Masvaure punches it down the track past the bowler for a single.

38.50

Lands it on a length ad around off, Prince Masvaure blocks it back to the bowler.

38.41

On a length and on the pads, Craig Ervine flicks it to square leg.

DRINKS! A second wicket for Barry McCarthy then and the umpires call for drinks. After the Lunch interval, Zimbabwe have had a stop-start with rain coming into play as well and have lost a couple of wickets in the first hour or so in the second session. However, Prince Masvaure is still out there on 54 and he will now hold the key for his side to get a big score. With that said, skipper Craig Ervine walks out to bat for Zimbabwe at number 4.

38.3W

OUT! TIMBER! McCarthy bowls an absolute ripper of a delivery and gets the better of Dion Myers. Steams in from over the wicket, and delivers it on a nagging length, just outside off, and gets the ball to first angle in and then shape away off the deck. Myers, stuck at the crease, attempts to defend with a straight bat. The away movement beats his outside edge and crashes into the off stump. Myers departs for 10 and Zimbabwe have slipped from 97/0 to 121/2.

38.21

Full and on off, Prince Masvaure pushes it through covers for a single.

38.10

A very optimistic appeal for LBW and the umpire turns it down. Barry McCarthy comes from over the wicket and lands it on a fuller length and on leg, Prince Masvaure misses out on making any connection as he tries to flick it off his pads and gets hit flush on the front pad.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 38 overs : 120/1

D Myers10 (23)

P Masvaure53 (106)

C Young8-1-26-0

37.60

Bangs it on a shorter length and outside off, Dion Myers holds his bat back and lets this one go through as well.

37.50

On a length and outside off, Dion Myers is clear in his intentions and leaves this one alone too.

37.40

Keeps it short and just outside off, Dion Myers reads the line well and leaves it alone.

37.30

Targets the pads on a hard length and around leg, Dion Myers looks to flick it away but gets beaten onto his pads.

37.21

Shorter in length and outside off, Prince Masvaure dabs it to third man for a single.

37.10

On a back of a length and outside off, Prince Masvaure leaves it alone.

As expected, we do have a bowling change. The erratic Mark Adair has been given some rest and Craig Young (7-1-25-0) is back into the attack. Bowls a heavy ball, which can be perfect in these conditions.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 37 overs : 119/1

P Masvaure52 (104)

D Myers10 (19)

B McCarthy12-4-34-1

36.61

Full and on off, Prince Masvaure drives it to mid off.

36.54b

FOUR BYES! That's a touch unfair on the keeper as that has beaten everyone! McCarthy digs it short and outside off. The ball just shoots off the deck and shapes away beating the batter and way over the keeper, to his left and past second slip for a boundary.

36.40

A tad fuller than a good length and outside off, Masvaure leaves it alone, again!

36.30

Continues to keep it outside off, and on a length, Prince Masvaure leaves it alone.

36.20

Wider on off and on a fuller length, Prince Masvaure shoulders arms.

36.10

Angles it away on a length, outside off, Prince Masvaure holds his bat very high and offers no shot.

Runs Scored 11 Runs

Score after 36 overs : 114/1

D Myers10 (19)

P Masvaure51 (98)

M Adair13-1-39-0

35.64

FOUR! The second of the over and the second for Dion Myers! Short of a length and over off, Dion Myers swivels back and pulls it over mid-wicket for four more runs. Just wonder whether this will be the last over for Adair for a while. He has gone for 39 in 13 overs and in this spell alone, he has figures of 5-0-20-0. Has just not been himself today.

35.50

Get the line closer this time and lands it outside off and on a hard length, Dion Myers is drawn into the shot and looks for a crack through the off side and misses.

35.40

An inswinger pitching on a fuller length and well outside off, Dion Myers holds his bat high and watches the ball wobble past to the keeper.

35.34

FOUR! Not fully in control of the shot but gets more than enough on it! Back of a length and over middle, Dion Myers pulls it off the upper half of the bat through mid-wicket for his first boundary.

35.22

Goes full and on middle and off, Dion Myers pushes it past mid off and gets a couple of runs to get off the mark.

35.11

On a back of a length and over middle and leg, Prince Masvaure dabs it in front of square leg and steals a quick run.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 35 overs : 103/1

D Myers0 (14)

P Masvaure50 (97)

B McCarthy11-4-33-1

34.60

Another top delivery from McCarthy to end the over. Goes full and just outside off with away movement off the deck. Dion Myers has a feel for it and keeps it close to the body but gets beaten on the outside edge.

34.50

On a good length and on middle and off, Dion Myers takes a good stride in and drives it to mid on.

34.40

Continues to hit the deck on a short of a length, this time around middle and leg, Dion Myers tucks it to the on side.

34.30

On a short of a length again and outside off. The ball shapes away further off the deck. Dion Myers watches the ball shoot off towards the keeper.

34.20

Hits the deck on a short of a length and outside off, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

34.11

FIFTY for Prince Masvaure, his fourth one in Test cricket! This has been a gritty knock from him thus far! Barry McCarthy bowls it full and into the pads, Masvaure tucks it to fine leg for a single.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 34 overs : 102/1

D Myers0 (9)

P Masvaure49 (96)

M Adair12-1-28-0

33.60

Slants it full and into the pads, around middle and leg, Dion Myers looks for the glance but misses it onto his front pad.

33.50

Drags the length short and lands it outside off, Dion Myers leaves it alone.

33.41

Goes full and just around off, Prince Masvaure pushes it through point for a single.

33.30

Fuller and on off, Prince Masvaure blocks it to the leg side.

33.21lb

On a good length and onto the pads again, Dion Myers looks to tuck it along the ground but wears it off his pads and steals a leg bye.

33.11lb

Just like the first ball of his previous over, Adair lands it on leg and on a length, Prince Masvaure yet again misses out on the flick and the ball just clips his thigh pads and trickles down to fine leg region for a leg bye. With that run, the 100 comes up for Zimbabwe.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 33 overs : 99/1

D Myers0 (6)

P Masvaure48 (93)

B McCarthy10-4-32-1

32.60

On a good length, over middle and leg, Dion Myers blocks it to mid-wicket.

32.50

Beauty! Comes from wider of the crease and serves it on a good length just outside off with some away movement off the deck. Dion Myers leans ahead and looks to block it with a straight bat but gets beaten on the outside edge by the shape on that one.

32.40

Gets the line closer to the off-stump and on a short of a length, Dion Myers taps it to point.

32.30

Width outside off and on a length, Dion Myers holds himself on the crease and offers no shot.

32.20

This is on a good length and just outside off, Dion Myers drives it to cover.

32.11lb

Comes from over the wicket and bowls it on a length and on leg, Prince Masvaure tries to tuck it fine but misses. The ball clips his pads and trickles away in front of fine leg for a leg bye.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 32 overs : 98/1

D Myers0 (1)

P Masvaure48 (92)

M Adair11-1-27-0

31.60

Switches to over the wicket for the right-hander and lands it on a good length, outside off. Dion Myers watches the ball and shoulders arms.

31.51

From around the wicket bangs it short of a length and outside off, Prince Masvaure with soft hands pushes it to the right of cover for a single.

Well then, a swift resumption in play as the players slowly make their way out to the middle once again. The umpires have taken their place and it will be Mark Adair who will finish off his incomplete over. Prince Masvaure back on strike with Dion Myers standing at the other end. Let's go...

UPDATE 6.42 pm IST (1.12 pm GMT) - The live visuals indicate that the rain has already stopped and the covers are coming off. As expected, it was just a passing shower and we should get an official word on the resumption of play. The groundstaff can be seen using ropes to dry the outfield and the umpires are already out in the middle. Stay tuned.

The forecast for the day says that there would be a few showers during the day but the on-air commentators do not expect this to be a long delay. Also, the groundstaff seems to be taking its own sweet time to get the covers on. In fact, only the square is being covered and even the players are just strolling off the field, which is a positive sign. Stick around as we might have an official update soon.

That's why, it is said that the period on either side of a break is dangerous for a batter. We were barely 15 minutes into the second session and Ireland broke through. Now, with another unscheduled break, things will again get difficult for the batters, especially the first 30 minutes, as adjusting to the newer conditions will take a while. Additionally, the moisture in the wicket will make the ball zip around.

UPDATE 6.33 pm IST (1.03 pm GMT) - Uh, oh! All of a sudden, the rain has gotten heavier and the umpires have decided that it is time for the players to go off the field. Joylord Gumbie would be kicking himself in that dressing room, as you never know - this might just open the door for Ireland.

31.40

Full and around middle and off, Prince Masvaure blocks it back to the bowler.

31.30

BEATEN! Adair keeps it on a good length and angles it outside off, Prince Masvaure looks to push it through but the ball zips past the outside edge.

31.20

Keeps it full but pushes it well wide of the off stump, left alone by Masvaure.

31.10

On a fullish length around middle and angling it in, Prince Masvaure gets on the front foot and drives it away to mid on.

Dion Myers walks in at number 3.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 31 overs : 97/1

J Gumbie49 (99)

P Masvaure47 (87)

B McCarthy9-3-32-1

30.6W

OUT! CAUGHT! Oh no, no no! The stage was set. The fans were waiting with bated breath and guess who was on air - Tino Mawoyo - one of the two players to feature in Zimbabwe's last century partnership for the opening wicket in Tests - way back in 2011. Zimbabwe were a hit away from getting the next name in that list - but alas, we jinxed them! Barry McCarthy comes from over the wicket and bowls it full and angling into the pads. Joylord Gumbie leans ahead and looks for the flick but ends up hitting it straight down to Curtis Campher at square leg who takes a sharp catch to his right around his shoulders. Joylord Gumbie falls just one run short of a well-deserved half-century and Zimbabwe after a strong start are now at 97/1.

30.51

On a length and onto the pads, Prince Masvaure tucks it to square leg for a single.

30.40

On a good length and on off, Prince Masvaure with no foot movement sticks his bat out and stabs it out.

30.34

FOUR! Just gets it past the fielder! McCarthy digs it short and outside off, Prince Masvaure dabs it wider of the fielder at gully for a boundary.

30.20

So nearly chopped it back onto the stumps! McCarthy hits the short of a length just outside off. Prince Masvaure looks to punch it through covers but plays it closer to his body. Ends up getting an inside edge that falls just inches away from the off stump and goes back to the keeper.

Just a few drops of rain have started to fall on the ground now. For now, the umpires do not see the need of going off the field but the ground staff is ready and waiting if need be. Let's hope it is just a passing drizzle.

30.10

Lands it full and outside off, Prince Masvaure drives it off the outer half of the bat straight to mid off.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 30 overs : 92/0

J Gumbie49 (98)

P Masvaure42 (82)

M Adair10-1-26-0

29.60

Hits the length right, over off, Joylord Gumbie gets behind the line and stabs it down the deck.

29.50

Full and on the stumps, Joylord Gumbie prods ahead and blocks it.

29.40

On a back of a length and just outside off, Joylord Gumbie gets closer to the line and dabs it out to the off side.

29.30

Straighter this time, into the stumps, Joylord Gumbie takes a stride out and tucks it to mid-wicket.

29.20

Pitches up an away swinger, on off, Joylord Gumbie drives it to mid off.

29.11

Angles it in, on a good length and into middle and leg, Prince Masvaure clips it in front of deep backward square leg for a single.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 29 overs : 91/0

J Gumbie49 (93)

P Masvaure41 (81)

B McCarthy8-3-27-0

28.60

End of a probing over from McCarthy post Lunch! Lands this full and on off, Joylord Gumbie leans ahead and blocks it out.

28.50

Back of a length and over middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie hops across a bit and tucks it in front of backward square leg for no run.

28.40

Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, with some away shape. Joylord Gumbie flicks it well but straight to the man at mid-wicket.

28.30

Nicely bowled! Hits the length right around off and gets the ball to shape away. Joylord Gumbie is caught in two minds and rocks back to punch it straight but gets beaten on the outside edge.

28.20

Goes fuller this time and around the fifth stump line, Joylord Gumbie watches the ball closely and offers no shot.

28.10

Starts from over the wicket and lands it on a length, outside off, shaping away a touch off the deck. Joylord Gumbie holds his bat up and leaves it alone.

Barry McCarthy to operate from the other end.

Runs Scored 6 Runs

Score after 28 overs : 91/0

P Masvaure41 (81)

J Gumbie49 (87)

M Adair9-1-25-0

27.60

Three good balls to close the over well! On a good length and over off, Prince Masvaure blocks it to the off side.

27.50

Angles it in, on a hard length around the fourth stump line. Masvaure tries to poke at it but gets beaten on the outside edge.

Interestingly, before the players came out, Mark Adair was practicing bowling, adjacent to the wicket, all by himself. He would want to be better with his lines and lengths in the afternoon.

27.40

Follws up with a tight line and on middle and off, Prince Masvaure gets behind the line and punches it to cover.

27.34

FOUR! Nice shot to bring up the first boundary of this session. Adair bangs it short and outside off, asking to be hit. Prince Masvaure hangs back and swats it through covers for a boundary.

27.22

Slants it full and into the pads, Prince Masvaure flicks it behind square on the leg side for a couple of runs.

27.10

Steams from over the wicket and lands it wayward on off, on a short of a length. Prince Masvaure leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

Welcome back to all our dedicated readers. Well, we should have been on the doorstep to the second session by now, but the umpires strictly go by the clock. The first session ended at 5:32 pm IST (1202 GMT), hence, the second session will start at 6:12 pm IST (1242 GMT). The players are slowly coming out now. Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure are back out to resume their stay on the crease. It will be Mark Adair who will get the post-Lunch session underway with the ball just like he started proceedings in the morning session as well. Let's play...

… DAY 1, SESSION 2 ...

As far as Ireland are concerned, they would want wickets. In pairs. Normally, in cricket, after a big partnership, if a wicket falls, it leads to one or two more dismissals. Will we see that happen in the next session? And if so, how many? Join us for the post-Lunch session at 6.10 pm IST (12.40 pm GMT) for the answers.

4th August, 2011. What is the significance of that date? It was on this date that a Zimbabwean opening pair last crossed triple digits in its partnership in Tests - the credits going to Tino Mawoyo and Vusi Sibanda. That was in Harare, when the pair added 102 against Bangladesh. 13 years later, will this current opening pair of Gumbie and Masvaure add its name to the list, that too, at the home of the opposition? Don't want to jinx them, but having come so close, they wouldn't want to miss it. Neither would you.

Well, the conditions are not exactly overcast but they ain't sunny either. We saw a couple of overs of off spin from Andy McBrine, but as expected, there was no turn or drift. If the pitch keeps playing the same way, he might have to bowl more overs during the day, to share the workload of the seamers. With both teams now having some fair assessment of the pitch and overhead conditions, expect the post-Lunch session to be a bit different in terms of the approach, especially from hosts Ireland.

As far as Zimbabwe are concerned, Joylord Gumbie was the main enforcer and whilst he played a bit unorthodox and got a few streaky boundaries as well early on, overall, he remained solid and didn't miss out on most of the scoring opportunities. Prince Masvaure, on the other hand, was happy to play second fiddle and managed to keep the scorecard ticking whilst making a few more leaves. Eventually, the two openers grew in confidence and Gumbie now sits on an unbeaten 49, ever so close to a maiden Test fifty on debut.

Young got the ball to move around but wasn't consistent enough, as was the case with other pacers, as they were simply too straight. Barry McCarthy bowled a long spell at the start and looked the most dangerous whereas Curtis Campher bowled late in the session and probably was the most accurate of the Irish pacers. However, while the effort was visible, the consistency wasn't.

As expected, the conditions weren't easy to start with the bat but the pitch was relatively friendly. Also, the Irish pacers weren't full enough and even though a few edges were induced, none went to hand. The Duke's ball does take a few overs before the lacker wears off to facilitate swing and that's what happened when Craig Young was introduced into the attack.

A very, very positive morning session for Zimbabwe as after being inserted into bat on a slightly gloomy day. We have witnessed a dry session in terms of the weather and also in terms of the wickets falling as there have been none. Not only that, the visitors are comfortably scoring at over 3 runs an over.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 27 overs : 85/0

P Masvaure35 (75)

J Gumbie49 (87)

A McBrine2-0-5-0

26.61

McBrine keeps it short and on the stumps, Masvaure nudges it to square leg for a single and that will be LUNCH ON DAY 1.

26.50

Slides this one fuller and into the stumps, Prince Masvaure taps it in front of square leg.

26.42

Drags the length short and outside off, Prince Masvaure gets back and punches it to deep point for a couple of runs.

26.30

Continues to loop it full and into the stumps, Prince Masvaure blocks it right under his eyes.

26.20

Floats it full and on middle, Masvaure gets a good stride out and blocks it.

26.10

Short and outside off, Prince Masvaure hangs back and punches it back to the bowler.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 26 overs : 82/0

J Gumbie49 (87)

P Masvaure32 (69)

C Campher3-1-9-0

25.62

Full again and on middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie trickles it fine to long leg for a couple of runs.

25.50

Full again and on the pads, Joylord Gumbie flicks it but finds the fielder at mid-wicket.

25.42

Full and into the pads, Joylord Gumbie flicks it through mid-wicket for a couple of runs.

25.30

Digs this one short and over leg, Joylord Gumbie tries to flick it but makes no connection.

25.20

Attacks the off stump line, on a good length, Joylord Gumbie leans on it and drive it to cover.

25.10

Campher comes from over the wicket and bowls it on a length and on off, Joylord Gumbie drives it well but straight to mid off.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 25 overs : 78/0

P Masvaure32 (69)

J Gumbie45 (81)

A McBrine1-0-2-0

24.60

McBrine drags the length short this time. Prince Masvaure quickly rocks back and blocks it straight.

24.50

Full again and into the stumps, Prince Masvaure tucks it to the leg side.

24.40

Continues to float it full and on middle and leg, Prince Masvaure defends it.

24.30

Full and on middle, Prince Masvaure drops his bat on it and keeps it out.

24.22

Gives the ball a lot of air and goes full and on leg, Prince Masvaure flicks it just away from the short leg fielder for a couple of runs.

24.10

Starts from around the wicket and floats it full and on middle and leg, Prince Masvaure blocks it well.

With just a few minutes left in the first session on Day 1, we will see some spin from Ireland as Andy McBrine has been tossed the ball.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 24 overs : 76/0

J Gumbie45 (81)

P Masvaure30 (63)

C Campher2-1-5-0

23.60

On a back of a length and on middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie is cramped and hurried by the pace on it but does well to blocks it out.

23.50

That's an absolute peace of a delivery! Serves it just outside off and on a good length, the ball shapes away off the deck. Joylord Gumbie is drawn into playing it and he does with a straight bat. Gets beaten by a whisker on the outside edge.

23.40

Swinging away off a fuller length, outside off, Joylord Gumbie shoulder arms.

23.30

Pitches this one on a length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie stays back and taps it to point.

23.20

This is on a good length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie plants his front leg out but offers no shot and leaves it alone.

23.10

Bangs it into the deck and angling into leg, Joylord Gumbie hops across and leaves it alone.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 23 overs : 76/0

P Masvaure30 (63)

J Gumbie45 (75)

C Young7-1-25-0

22.60

Young angles it away on a short of a length and outside off, Prince Masvaure punches it to the fielder at point.

22.50

Gets the line over middle and off and serves it on a good length, Prince Masvaure mistimes his on-drive to mid-wicket.

22.40

Full and on off, Prince Masvaure drives it well but straight to mid off.

22.30

Pulls the length back slightly shorter than the previous one and on the stumps, Prince Masvaure blocks it well too.

22.20

Young lands it fuller and onto the stumps, Prince Masvaure gets right behind the line and stabs it out.

22.11

Hits the hard length over middle and leg, Gumbie takes a step across and tucks it in front of deep backward square leg for a single.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 22 overs : 75/0

P Masvaure30 (58)

J Gumbie44 (74)

C Campher1-0-5-0

21.60

On a shorter length and sliding down leg. Prince Masvaure leaves it alone for the keeper to collect.

21.51

On a good length and into the stumps, Joylord Gumbie tucks it to mid on and gets a single.

21.40

Nicely bowls this full and just around that fifth stump line with some away movement off the deck. Joylord Gumbie has a feel for it but gets beaten on the outside edge.

21.30

On a short of a length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie cuts it to backward point.

21.23

Campher goes full and shapes the ball back into the left-hander on middle and leg, Prince Masvaure flicks it well through the gap at mid-wicket. The fielder from mid on chases the ball and relays it back, saving a run for his side.

21.11

Starts from over the wicket and serves it full and into the pads, Joylord Gumbie flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.

Time for more seam bowling as Curtis Campher is brought into the attack.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 21 overs : 70/0

P Masvaure27 (56)

J Gumbie42 (70)

C Young6-1-24-0

20.60

Bangs this short and over middle and off, Prince Masvaure ducks under and leaves it alone.

20.54

FOUR! Making it look very easy out there is Masvaure. Craig Young lands it on a good length and just outside off, Prince Masvaure drives it on the full and gets it well past mid off for a boundary.

20.40

On a back of a length and over middle and leg, cramps the batter for any room. Prince Masvaure is equal to the task and dabs it down the deck.

20.30

Angling it away on a short of a length and outside off, Prince Masvaure leaves it alone.

20.20

Strigahter and fuller on middle and leg, Prince Masvaure blocks it to the on side.

20.10

Hits the deck hard and on a short of a good length, angling it away outside off, Prince Masvaure sees the line and leaves it alone.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 20 overs : 66/0

P Masvaure23 (50)

J Gumbie42 (70)

M Adair8-1-19-0

19.61

Full and slanting into the pads, Prince Masvaure glances it behind square of the wicket on the leg side for a single.

19.50

Digs this one short and over middle, Prince Masvaure reads the length early and ducks underneath.

19.40

Angles it in, on a good length and around off, Prince Masvaure eases it out.

19.30

On a back of a length and outside off, Prince Masvaure leaves it alone.

19.24

FOUR! After a couple of tight overs, Masvaure takes off the building pressure with a beautiful shot! Too full from Adair and on off, Prince Masvaure leans on it and drives it through the left of mid off for a boundary.

19.10

Comes from around the wicket and lands it on a good length and into middle and leg, Prince Masvaure tries to flick it but misses.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 19 overs : 61/0

J Gumbie42 (70)

P Masvaure18 (44)

C Young5-1-20-0

18.60

Another dot to end a maiden over! Young serves it full and on off, Joylord Gumbie drives it to mid off.

18.50

Keeps it straight and on off, Joylord Gumbie blocks it with a straight bat.

18.40

Hurls it on a good length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie plays it inside the line and makes no connection.

18.30

Full and around off, Joylord Gumbie drives it to cover.

18.20

Ouch! That will sting! Craig Young angles it into the right-hander on a shorter length around middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie gets a step across and looks to tuck it on the leg side but misses. The ball wears him just above the thigh pad.

18.10

Short of a length and over off, Joylord Gumbie defends it back to the bowler.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 18 overs : 61/0

P Masvaure18 (44)

J Gumbie42 (64)

M Adair7-1-14-0

17.60

On a back of a length around middle and off, Prince Masvaure hops back and blocks it

17.50

A wild shot that misses the inside edge by not much. Adair bowls it full and outside off with the angle going away from the left-hander. Prince Masvaure with not much of foot movement looks to drive it through the line but gets beaten on the inside edge.

17.40

Lands it into the pads around leg and on a fuller length, Prince Masvaure tries to flick it off his pads but gets pinged on the front pad.

17.30

Attacks the stumps on a fuller length, Prince Masvaure flicks it to square leg.

17.20

Full and outside off, Prince Masvaure lets it go through to the keeper.

17.10

From around the wicket, slants it full and down leg. Prince Masvaure leaves it alone. The keeper dives to his right an makes a sharp stop.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 17 overs : 61/0

J Gumbie42 (64)

P Masvaure18 (38)

C Young4-0-20-0

16.60

Drags the length short again and hits the deck hard over off, Joylord Gumbie rides on the bounce and looks to manoeuvre it through off but only gets an inside edge back onto the deck.

16.50

Full and outside off, Joylord Gumbie leaves it alone.

16.40

A loud appeal for caught behind but the umpire nods his head. Young serves this full and swings it away from outside off. Joylord Gumbie looks for the push through off but makes no connection.

16.30

And again! Keeps it short of a length and on off, Joylord Gumbie tucks it to the point region off the backfoot.

16.21

Continues to keep it short but gets the line closer around middle and off, Prince Masvaure rides the bounce and stabs it in front of backward point for a single.

16.14

FOUR! Real shot of authority from Masvaure. Young digs it very short and offers width outside off, Prince Masvaure hangs back and swats it over backward point for a boundary.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 16 overs : 56/0

P Masvaure13 (36)

J Gumbie42 (60)

M Adair6-0-14-0

15.61

Full and on off, Prince Masvaure tucks it through the leg side for a single to end the over.

15.50

Comes from around the wicket and bowls this just outside off and on a fullish length. The ball shapes away off the deck as Masvaure looks to poke at it.

15.41

Keeps it on a hard length and on middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie looks to flick it across the line and gets an outside edge towards cover for a single.

15.30

Another away swinging delivery, pitched fuller in length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie plays it inside the line and misses.

15.20

Beats the bat! Adair bowls an away swinger on a good length and outside off. Joylord Gumbie is drawn into the shot and he looks to push it through covers but the ball just moves away beating him on the outside edge.

15.10

Starts from over the wicket and bowls it full and on the stumps, Joylord Gumbie jams it down to the right of the bowler.

Bowling change? Surely, Barry McCarthy won't bowl 8 overs on the trot, right? No, he won't! Instead, Mark Adair (5-0-12-0) will return to the attack from the other end.

Runs Scored 9 Runs

Score after 15 overs : 54/0

P Masvaure12 (34)

J Gumbie41 (56)

C Young3-0-15-0

14.60

Straighter line and on a good length, Prince Masvaure opens up his stance and blocks it with a straight bat.

14.53

This is on a fuller length and outside off, Joylord Gumbie punches it through covers. The fielder from cover chases the ball and cuts it off for three runs.

14.40

Lands a yorker into middle and leg, Joylord Gumbie digs it out in time.

14.34

FOUR! Gets it over the leg slip! Young digs it very short and angling over middle and leg. Joylord Gumbie quickly swivels back and pulls it off the upper half of the bat over the fielder at leg slip for a boundary.

14.22

Hits the deck hard and on a shorter length, outside off, Joylord Gumbie punches it through cover-point for a couple of runs.

14.10

On a good length around off, Joylord Gumbie taps it to the leg side.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 14 overs : 45/0

P Masvaure12 (33)

J Gumbie32 (51)

B McCarthy7-2-27-0

13.60

Maiden over! Hurls it nicely on a good length and outside off, Prince Masvaure reads the line quickly and holds his bat high leaving the ball zip through to the keeper.

13.50

Angles it away, outside off and on a fuller length, Prince Masvaure watches the ball closely and leaves it alone.

13.40

Fuller in length and on off, Prince Masvaure drives it straight to the man at mid on.

13.30

Lands it on a good length and on top of off, Prince Masvaure gets closer to the line and blocks it back to the bowler.

13.20

Drags the length a bit shorter but continues to aim the stumps, Prince Masvaure hangs back and stabs it down the deck.

13.10

Continues from over the wicket and bowls it straight and full, into the stumps, Prince Masvaure gets his bat ahead and pushes it back to the bowler.

DRINKS! The first hour of play has been thoroughly engaging, setting a strong foundation for the Test match. Both Barry McCarthy and Mark Adair maintained a disciplined length and opted for a straight line, which allowed the Zimbabwean openers to settle in despite the overcast conditions. While a few outside edges provided brief moments of excitement for the hosts, credit is due to the Zimbabwean pair, Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure, which has handled the challenge admirably and ticked along nicely thus far. They will aim to build on this solid start as they head into the second hour. Ireland, on the other hand, will want to use this pause to regroup and adjust their tactics.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 13 overs : 45/0

P Masvaure12 (27)

J Gumbie32 (51)

C Young2-0-6-0

12.61

A single to end the first hour's worth of play and Zimbabwe are 45/0 in 13 overs. On the shorter side and at the body, Masvaure manages to flick it away in front of square leg and picks up a single.

12.50

And again! On a length and outside off stump, Masvaure simply shoulders arms at it.

12.40

Good length, in the channel and outside off, Masvaure leaves it alone.

12.30

Just back of a length and around off, popping off the deck, Masvaure goes back and across to make the block.

12.24

FOUR! A long chase for the fielder but the ball eventually wins the race. Pitched up full and around off, Prince Masvaure leans on and strokes it nicely through covers. Andy McBrine from covers goes after it and the ball slows down but does end up in the ropes.

12.10

On a good length and angled across the off stump, left alone by Prince Masvaure.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 12 overs : 40/0

J Gumbie32 (51)

P Masvaure7 (21)

B McCarthy6-1-27-0

11.60

Hits the deck hard bowling it outside off stump, Joylord Gumbie hangs back and manages to push it out on the off side.

11.50

Short of a length on leg stump and trying to angle it across, Gumbie looks to play it off the back foot but misses and gets another blow on that right glove. That must have stung!

11.40

A bumper now, dug in short and right at the face, Joylord Gumbie does well to duck under that one.

11.30

Back of a length again and over the stumps, Gumbie goes across to the off side a but and tucks it on the leg side.

11.20

Back of a length and around off, Gumbie tries to replicate the shot from the last ball but the delivery isn't enough short or wide and Gumbie ends up miscuing it in the air but well in front of extra cover.

11.14

FOUR! Short and wide and given the rightful treatment by Joylord Gumbie who now moves into the 30s in his debut Test inning. Too short and offering too much width, Gumbie leans back and swats the ball away flat and in front of square on the off side for a boundary.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 11 overs : 36/0

P Masvaure7 (21)

J Gumbie28 (45)

C Young1-0-1-0

10.60

This is pitched up on the stumps, sliding back into the left-hander, Masvaure blocks it back to the bowler.

10.50

On a good length in the channel outside off, Prince Masvaure shoulders arms at it.

10.41

Goes back to bowling short and angles this one in at the body of the batter, Joylord Gumbie is hurried a bit but manages to half-pull it over backward square leg for a single.

10.30

BEAUTY! The best delivery of the morning so far! Pitched up in and around the off stump, drawing the batter forward. Joylord Gumbie has to play at it but the ball swings away and just zips past the outside edge.

10.20

Back of a length around the top of off stump, Joylord Gumbie gets behind the line of the ball and blocks it off.

10.10

Begins with a short ball over the off stump and tries to really dig it in, Joylord Gumbie simply ducks under it.

Craig Young is introduced into the attack now.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 10 overs : 35/0

J Gumbie27 (41)

P Masvaure7 (19)

B McCarthy5-1-23-0

9.61

Full on middle, looking to slide one across the pads but Gumbie leans on and flicks it away wide of mid on for a single.

9.50

On a good length and in the channel outside off stump, straightening up a bit, Joylord Gumbie tucks his hands behind the waist and leaves it alone.

9.40

Hard length on a much tighter line around off stump, Gumbie hangs back and defends it to the off side.

9.30

Shorter in length and angled in from wide of the off stump, this one leaves the batter after pitching and with some additional bounce as well. Gumbie plays away from the body and is lucky not to edge that one.

9.21

Banged in short over leg stump, Masvaure tucks it neatly off the hips down to fine leg and picks up an easy single.

9.12

Uppish but in the gap! Pitched up on middle and leg, Prince Masvaure looks to whip it across but is a tad late to bring the bat down and gets it uppishly into the gap at mid-wicket and picks up a couple of runs.

A slight hold in proceedings as Joylord Gumbie receives some medical attention from the physio after being hit on the finger on an earlier delivery from Barry McCarthy. He gets some ice spray and taping done on his right index finger and is all set to resume his stay at the crease.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 9 overs : 31/0

J Gumbie26 (37)

P Masvaure4 (17)

M Adair5-0-12-0

8.60

Oh, that was almost the first wicket and Mark Adair certainly thought so. On a good length outside off and this one angles back in a mile. Joylord Gumbie hangs back and is taken aback but somehow manages to get a bit of bat or glove on it as the ball gets jammed out on the off side. Replays indicate that it certainly came off the bat.

8.50

Full and outside off, swinging away yet again and Gumbie leaves it alone.

8.51wd

Pitched up well outside off stump and swinging further away, quite a lot in fact and it is deemed as a wide.

8.40

Now, that was more like it from Adair and that swung back in a long way. Adair goes a bit wider on the crease and pitches it up slightly, getting the ball to jag back in sharply. Joylord Gumbie is on the back foot and late on it but gets an inside edge before the ball pings him on the pads.

8.30

Adair does get closer to the off stump line and angles it in as well but it isn't quite the big in-dipper. Just short of a length and Gumbie gets nicely behind it to make the block.

8.20

On a good length and well wide of the off stump yet again, Gumbie doesn't play at it. Is Adair setting Gumbie up for the big inswinger?

8.10

A short leg is in place now for Adair but he starts the over with a shortish delivery well wide of the off stump. Gumbie leaves it alone.

Runs Scored 13 Runs

Score after 8 overs : 30/0

P Masvaure4 (17)

J Gumbie26 (31)

B McCarthy4-1-19-0

7.60

On a good length on leg stump and angling down the leg side, Masvaure misses the flick as the ball goes into the keeper's mitts.

7.51

Back of a length around middle, nudged away down to fine leg for an easy single.

7.44

EDGED AND FOUR! A superb comeback delivery from Barry McCarthy but it results in another streaky boundary and this is now a very solid start for Zimbabwe. Hard length over off and middle, McCarthy gets the ball to jump off the deck and Gumbie is beaten all ends up. The ball however, takes the shoulder of the bat and loops over the slip cordon and trickles into the deep third fence yet again.

7.34

FOUR! That's nicely played by Joylord Gumbie! A bit too short and around off, Gumbie hops and gets on top of the bounce before angling the ball well behind backward point for a second boundary of the over.

7.20

Bowls it even shorter now over off and middle, Joylord Gumbie presses back and keeps it down onto the deck.

7.14

FOUR! Another outside edge and another four for Joylord Gumbie. Back of a length and in the channel around off, Gumbie does open the bat face a bit and ends up getting it off the outer part of the bat and wide of the gully fielder into the deep third fence.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 7 overs : 17/0

P Masvaure4 (16)

J Gumbie13 (26)

M Adair4-0-11-0

6.60

A bit fuller and outside off stump, slanting back into the left-hander, Masvaure plays it off the front foot towards cover.

6.50

A big shout of 'No run,' there from Prince Masvaure. On a slightly dragged length outside off and swinging back in a fair bit, Masvaure stands tall and punches it away towards covers.

6.41

Floated up a bit around middle and leg, Gumbie works the ball down to fine leg and rotates the strike.

6.30

Back to over the wicket for the right-hander and bowled around the top of off stump. Joylord Gumbie with a solid block off the front foot to the left of the bowler.

6.21

A gentle-paced delivery, pitched up on the pads, Masvaure pushes it just wide of mid on and gets across easily for a quick single.

6.10

A bit fuller and a bit straighter, angling it into the left-hander, Prince Masvaure misses the flick and plays all around it as the ball hits him high on the pads.

Runs Scored 4 Runs

Score after 6 overs : 15/0

J Gumbie12 (24)

P Masvaure3 (12)

B McCarthy3-1-6-0

5.60

Bowled back of a length and over the off stump line, Gumbie blocks it off just to the leg side. So far, the pitch seems to lack bite and seems easy paced.

5.50

A well-directed bumper now from Barry McCarthy, dug in around off and angling it in, Joylord Gumbie sees it all the way and ducks under it well.

5.40

McCarthy is bowling quite straight, maybe he's looking for a strangle down the leg side but there's no leg slip in place yet. Tad short over off and middle and angling in, Gumbie looks to get inside the line and tuck it fine but misses.

5.30

A pretty straight delivery, on a good length and around middle, Gumbie tucks the ball to mid-wicket.

5.24

FOUR! Short of a good length over middle and angling in, Gumbie gets well inside the line this time and controls the tickle down to fine leg and picks up a boundary.

5.10

Good length on the off stump line, Joylord Gumbie simply cannot resist going across a bit and tucks the ball to mid-wicket.

Runs Scored 3 Runs

Score after 5 overs : 11/0

P Masvaure3 (12)

J Gumbie8 (18)

M Adair3-0-9-0

4.60

On a touch fuller length outside off and slanting back in a bit, Prince Masvaure makes an assured leave.

4.50

Switches to around the wicket now for the left-hander and angles it in on a good length onto middle, Prince Masvaure leans on and pats it in front of mid on.

4.41

Too straight again from Adair, around the leg stump, Gumbie gets inside the line and flicks it down to fine leg for a run.

4.30

Good length, starting on middle and leg and this one just keeps angling in and goes down the leg side as Gumbie misses the flick.

4.22

Nice and full outside off, swinging away, Joylord Gumbie gets another outside edge while looking to drive on the up and the ball trickles between gully and backward point for a couple of runs more.

4.10

Much better from Joylord Gumbie. Pitched up in and around the off stump, Gumbie gets across a bit yet again but plays it with a much straighter bat towards mid on instead of mid-wicket.

Runs Scored 2 Runs

Score after 4 overs : 8/0

P Masvaure3 (10)

J Gumbie5 (14)

B McCarthy2-1-2-0

3.60

Just a tad bit short and on a tight line around off stump, Masvaure tucks his hands behind the waist and makes the leave.

3.52

Good shot! On a fuller length and wide of off stump, not quite a half-volley but Masvaure gets on the front foot and strokes it on the up through covers. Matthew Humphreys chases it down and the batters get a couple of runs.

3.40

Pitched up quite a fair bit around the fourth stump line and this one just slides across with the angle. Prince Masvaure makes another assured leave.

3.30

Good length in the channel around off stump and McCarthy yet again gets good carry off the deck as Masvaure shoulders arms at it.

3.20

Similar line and length to the previous one, Masvaure again goes on the back foot and nudges it down in front of covers. Joylord Gumbie is eager for the quick single but Masvaure sends him back in time.

3.10

Nagging length around off, shaping back into the top of off stump, Prince Masvaure gets on the back foot and firmly blocks it to short covers.

Runs Scored 5 Runs

Score after 3 overs : 6/0

J Gumbie5 (14)

P Masvaure1 (4)

M Adair2-0-6-0

2.60

Bangs it in a bit around off stump, surprising the batter but Gumbie manages to fend it away in front of covers.

2.54

EDGED AND FOUR! The first boundary of the Test match but Mark Adair will be encouraged with that. Pitched up around off stump, getting it to swing away, Joylord Gumbie is on the front foot but has to reach for the drive and gets a thick outside edge past the trio of slip fielders and the ball goes away into the deep third fence.

2.40

Short of a length around off and middle, Joylord Gumbie gets across a bit and nudges it down towards mid-wicket.

2.30

Much better line from Adair! On a hard length and around the top of fourth stump, this one pitches and nips away sharply as Gumbie ends up playing inside the line of the ball.

2.21

Fractionally short around middle and leg stump, Masvaure with a flick off the pads down to fine leg and he now gets off the mark as well with a single.

2.10

On a bit of a fuller length, angled well across the left-hander, Masvaure makes an easy leave.

Runs Scored 0 Runs

Score after 2 overs : 1/0

J Gumbie1 (10)

P Masvaure0 (2)

B McCarthy1-1-0-0

1.60

Now, that's a ripper of a delivery! Barry McCarthy pitches it slightly up on the fifth stump line and gets the ball to jag back in a mile off the deck. Joylord Gumbie doesn't pick it up and shoulders his arms but gets rapped on the pads. A stifled appeal but turned down quickly by the umpire. A maiden to begin with from McCarthy.

1.50

Angled in from wider on the crease and on a shorter length, trying to angle the ball away from off stump. Gumbie gets nicely behind it and blocks it off. The Irish bowlers a bit on the shorter side to begin with here.

1.40

On a good length and in the channel outside off, zipping through off the deck, Gumbie gets his front leg across and leaves it alone.

1.30

This is pitched up around middle, trying to angle it in, Gumbie tucks it away neatly to the man just in front of square leg.

1.20

Hammers the ball on a hard length now and bowls it outside off, gets some extra bounce and carry through to the keeper as Joylord Gumbie shoulders arms.

1.10

Nice and full to begin with from over the stumps. This is bowled around the fourth stump line, with a hint of away movement and Gumbie blocks it on the full to the off side.

It will be Barry McCarthy to share the new ball from the other end.

Runs Scored 1 Runs

Score after 1 overs : 1/0

P Masvaure0 (2)

J Gumbie1 (4)

M Adair1-0-1-0

0.60

Pitched up this time on the off stump line, looking to swing it back in, Prince Masvaure gets nicely onto the front foot and solidly blocks it off.

0.50

Lovely line and length around off stump, around the top of the stumps and Prince Masvaure makes a watchful leave.

0.41

Joylord Gumbie is off the mark in Test cricket! On a length again and a bit too straight, Gumbie works it off the pads and down towards fine leg for a single. Zimbabwe are underway too.

0.30

Bowled on a shorter length and well outside off, getting it to move further away, Gumbie shoulders arms at it.

0.20

On a hard length around leg stump, Joylord Gumbie yet again goes across to the off side and this time, he makes a leave.

0.10

A bit of confusion between the two batters but no harm is done. Mark Adair begins on a good length and tries to swing the ball away from leg stump. Interesting trigger movement from Joylord Gumbie as he goes across the off stump and tucks the ball just behind square leg. They look for the single but decide against it.

Right then, We are done with all the prematch formalities! With everything set for the Test to commence, the two umpires make their way to the centre of the field, followed by the Irish fielders, who are spreading out in position. Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure, the opening batters, stride out to the middle, ready to start the proceedings for Zimbabwe amid the slightly overcast conditions. Mark Adair, gripping the new ball tightly, is poised at the top of his mark, eager to begin. And we’re underway!

The teams make their way to the field for the national anthems. It will be Zimbabwe's anthem first followed by Ireland's national anthem.

A special bell is rung to commemorate the venue. The bell will be known as the Roy Torrens Bell, paying homage to former Irish cricketer Roy Torrens. Roy wasn't just a former player but also had roles as the coach and manager of the Irish national side between the years 2004-16. He died in January of 2021 and here's to hoping that this bell will be rung plenty more times in the future.

Craig Ervine, the captain of Zimbabwe says that they would have bowled as well but are not too sure on how the conditions will go. Adds that they are happy to be back up here and the guys haven't played Test cricket for a while and are pretty pumped up about it.

Andy Balbirnie, the skipper of Ireland says they will bowl first. Adds that it looks like a pretty good pitch and is slightly overcast too. Says that they have just one change from the last Test match that they played and Matthew Humphreys comes in.

Zimbabwe (Playing XI) - Joylord Gumbie (On Test debut), Prince Masvaure, Dion Myers, Craig Ervine (C), Sean Williams, Brian Bennett (On Test debut), Clive Madande (WK) (On Test debut), Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Tanaka Chivanga, Tendai Chatara.

Ireland (Playing XI) - Andy Balbirnie (C), Peter Moor, Curtis Campher, Harry Tector, Paul Stirling, Lorcan Tucker (WK), Andy McBrine, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young, Matthew Humphreys.

TOSS - Ireland have won the toss and will BOWL first.

We are just a few minutes away from the toss and a few of the sources confirm that there was a brief shower about 15 minutes ago but it has generally been dry this morning in Belfast and barring another shower, we should have the toss on time. Stick around as we might see a few debutants as well.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe lacks experience in the longer format, with every player apart from skipper Craig Ervine and Sean Williams having played fewer than ten Test matches. Their inexperienced middle order, which has been a strength in the limited-overs format, will face a true test in this match. Blessing Muzarabani will spearhead the pace attack for the visitors, and despite their relative inexperience, these young players have the potential to deliver a fighting performance, setting the stage for an exciting contest. Who do you reckon will make the first impact on Day 1? Stick around as we find out shortly, with the toss and team updates just minutes away.

The hosts, Ireland, enter this game riding a wave of confidence from their maiden Test victory against Afghanistan, aiming to replicate that strong performance against a Zimbabwe side struggling with form. The batting unit remains robust, while the absence of Joshua Little places additional responsibility on Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy to spearhead the bowling attack in what seems to be favourable conditions for bowlers, with overhead cloud cover expected throughout the five days.

Hello and a warm welcome to the first day's action of this historic One-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe. This match promises to captivate fans across the globe as these two sides clash for the first time ever in the longest format of the game. Adding to the excitement, Northern Ireland's Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast will make its Test debut, becoming the 123rd venue to host an International Men's Test Match. 

... DAY 1, SESSION 1 ...