Madhevere fights but Ireland inch closer to win

Madhevere fights but Ireland inch closer to win

Ireland inched closer to a win in the one-off Test against Zimbabwe despite three hours of play lost due to rain. Wessly Madhevere put up a brave fight with an unbeaten half-century, but Zimbabwe now need another 109 runs on the final day for a win. Ireland need to pick just three wickets.

Ireland struck in the first over, knocking over Trevor Gwandu, and Madhevere and Brian Bennett hit a boundary each to ease nerves. However, Matthew Humphreys prized out Bennett, leaving half the side back in the pavilion.

Madhevere found a new partner in Jonathan Campbell, but their 56-run stand was ended when Campbell hit one straight back to Humphreys. Zimbabwe's hopes now rest on Madhevere and the rain gods for a miracle.

Brief scores:

• Zimbabwe: 267 & 183/7 (Wessly Madhevere 61*, Brian Bennett 45; Matthew Humphreys 4/41) need another 109 runs
• Ireland: 260 & 298