Ireland edges ahead as Zimbabwean bowlers fight back on day two

ASHLEY DUBE 

Zimbabwe – 210/10 (71.3 overs) & 12/0 (4 overs)

Ireland – 250/10 (58.3 overs)

Zimbabwe trail by 28 runs (Day 2 stumps)

Despite a valiant fightback by the Zimbabwean bowlers, Ireland secured a narrow first-innings advantage on day two of the one-off Test at Stormont, leaving the match finely poised heading into the weekend.

Image: Cricket Ireland 

The day began with Ireland's openers, PJ Moor and Andrew Balbirnie, setting a strong foundation with a record-breaking 71-run opening stand. 

Moor, in particular, impressed, reaching 79 runs and establishing a new highest Test score for an Irish opener. 

However, the afternoon saw the tide turn as the Zimbabwean bowlers unleashed a disciplined attack, taking seven wickets for 88 runs, similar with how the Zimbabwe batting innings panned out on day one.

Tanaka Chivanga made a pivotal impact, claiming three wickets. Blessing Muzarabani, once again, proved his worth with 3-53, including a crucial double-wicket maiden. 

Sean Williams also played a key role, taking 2-11, including the wickets of Paul Stirling and Mark Adair.

The Irish innings looked set for a comfortable lead, but a one-hour rain delay and a late fightback from the Zimbabwe bowlers disrupted their momentum. 

Andy McBrine (28) and Matthew Humphreys (27 not out) provided a vital late surge, putting on a last-wicket partnership of 47 runs to reach a total of 250.

Despite the setback, the Zimbabweans showed resilience, ending the day on 12-0 in their second innings. 

Joylord Gumbie and Prince Masvaure will be hoping to build on this solid start and capitalize on any weaknesses in the Irish bowling attack.

The match remains delicately balanced, with a fascinating battle ahead on Saturday and Sunday. 

Both teams will be looking to exploit any opportunities to secure victory in this historic test match.