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BELFAST. — The first game of the three-match ODI series between Ireland and Zimbabwe gets underway today at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast.

Ireland, led by Andy Balbirnie, had an impressive time in the five-game T20I series.

The hosts started with a three-run loss in the first game, but came back to win three straight games.

The victories also helped Ireland seal the fate of the T20I series.

In the final T20I, Zimbabwe rescued some pride with a five-race victory and the series ended 3-2 in favour of Ireland.

Paul Stirling was declared Player of the Series for scoring 234 runs with a 58.50 average.

Fast pitcher Mark Adair was the leader in taking wicket with 10 scalps.

In the ODI format, Ireland and Zimbabwe have met 13 times.

The two teams have six wins each in those games, with one match in 2007 ending in a draw.

Ireland must also have a lot of confidence from the fact that in July they beat South Africa in an ODI.

Weather report

Conditions will be warm and sunny, with temperatures around 19 degrees Celsius.

The humidity will be in the 80s and there is no chance of rain.

Launch report

The venue in Belfast hasn’t had high scores over the years. The average score in 31 games is 225. Of the 28 games completed at the venue, the chasing teams have won 14 times. Hitting second should be the way to go for the sides.

Playing XI predicted

Ireland

Ireland will rely heavily on Paul Stirling to get them flying. Captain Andy Balbirnie also needs to be on top of his game. William Porterfield has also returned to the team. Adair has shown good ball-in-hand form and his role in the ODI series is expected to be critical.

Playing XI: Paul Stirling, William Porterfield, Andrew Balbirnie (c), George Dockrell, Curtis Campher, Neil Rock (week), Andy McBrine, Simi Singh, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young

Zimbabwe

Craig Ervine was in great shape for Zimbabwe in the T20I series. He had 160 races at an average of 40 and would be looking to replicate something similar in ODIs. Blessing Muzarabani has been a true beneficiary of Zimbabwe and the responsibility will fall on him to make progress.

Playing XI: Wesley Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Regis Chakabva (week), Dion Myers, Craig Ervine (c), Milton Shumba, Donald Tiripano, Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

Match prediction:

Ireland will come into this match with a lot of momentum after beating Zimbabwe in the T20I series. Furthermore, having already surpassed South Africa before, Ireland’s confidence should also be high. Ireland should be able to start with a victory.

Match details:

Ireland vs Zimbabwe, 1st ODI

Campus: Public Service Cricket Club, Belfast — insider-voice.com