ZIMBABWE BLOW IT AND TIE WITH IRELAND

Sabina Park saw World Cup 2007’s first nail-biter with Zimbabwe and Ireland tying in an entertaining Group D clash that produced some pulsating, enthralling cricket. Ireland put forth a gritty performance with hero Jeremy Bray making a century. Zimbabwe have only themselves to blame after some poor performances in the field that ultimately cost them the game.

The Irish looked to be getting very little of that famous luck after starting the innings at the crease. Elton Chigumbura (taking 2 for 21) ripped through the middle order. But it was Bray, who kept the Irish in it smacking ten 4’s and two 6’s to finish his innings on 115. He was best supported by Andrew White who went out LBW to Brent on a paltry 28.

Zimbabwe took up the bat and seemed to be cruising to victory on 93 for 1 chasing 222. But within 45 minutes had slumped to 133 for 5. Composing themselves the African team steadied the innings courtesy of Stuart Matsikenyeri and Brendan Taylor. Ireland started to look sloppy in the field, and Zimbabwe looked on course to their first victory of the tournament. Then Taylor was run-out and Gary Brent fell LBW with ten needed.

Zimbabwe, who have had so little to cheer in recent years, will be left wondering quite what happened bur after reviewing some game tapes will see exactly how.

OUR MAN OF THE MATCH

Full Name: Jeremy Paul Bray
Born: 30/11/1973, Sydney, New South Wales
Age 33 years
Team: Ireland
Batting Style: Left-hand bat
Fielding Position: Occasional wicketkeeper

Although the World Cricket League in Kenya was generally disappointing for Ireland, Bray returned with a one-day century to his name when he hit 116 from 136 against Scotland. Born in Australia and representing New South Wales Bray was player of the tournament in the 1992-93 Australian Under-19 Cricket Championships in Brisbane and top scored for Ireland with 71 in their famous win against the West Indies in 2004. He held the highest ever first-class score by an Irishman with his 190 against the UAE in the 2005 Intercontinental Cup until Eoin Morgan surpassed that with his double century against the same opponents earlier this year.