Zimbabwe are slight favorites to win this Ireland vs Zimbabwe match prediction with a 52% win probability, compared to Ireland’s 48%. The edge goes to ZIM because of their proven finishing power and wicket-taking threat, particularly after defending 169 against Australia. In this IRE vs ZIM prediction, we break down pitch conditions at Pallekele, likely playing XI combinations, tactical battles, and fantasy cricket tips to determine who holds the advantage in this ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash.
Ireland vs Zimbabwe Match Details
Match | Ireland vs Zimbabwe | 32nd Match | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
|---|---|
Date | 17/02/2026 (Tuesday) |
Time | BDT 3:30 PM / PKT 2:30 PM / INR 3:00 PM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium |
Recent performance | Ireland – W W L L W, Zimbabwe – W L L W W |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the IRE vs ZIM Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
The Pallekele pitch report suggests a balanced surface that evolves across phases. Early on, seamers can extract bounce, but as the game progresses, stroke play becomes easier. Teams batting second may benefit if dew sets in. For this Ireland vs Zimbabwe prediction, a first-innings total around 170–180 looks competitive, but anything above that could tilt the contest decisively.
Weather Report
Weather report are expected to be cloudy with a moderate chance of rain. While temperatures should remain manageable, the dew factor could influence the second innings. In this IRE vs ZIM preview, captains winning the toss may prefer chasing if moisture builds up later, particularly given how Pallekele behaves under lights.
IRE vs ZIM Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 18 |
|---|---|
IRE Won | 8 |
ZIM Won | 8 |
Tied | 0 |
No Result | 2 |
First-ever Fixture | March 17, 2014 |
Most-recent Fixture | February 25, 2025 |
Ireland vs Zimbabwe Team Preview & Squads
Ireland
Captain Lorcan Tucker enters this Ireland vs Zimbabwe preview in explosive form. His unbeaten 94* against Oman powered Ireland to 235/5, underlining his authority at the top. As captain and key batter, Tucker dictates tempo, if he anchors, Ireland stabilize; if he accelerates, totals balloon.
The batting structure revolves around Tucker, supported by Harry Tector and Curtis Campher. Their recent 96-run win over Oman demonstrated Ireland’s ability to post imposing totals. The likely playing XI should maintain continuity after such a dominant display.
Bowling-wise, Ireland depend heavily on Mark Adair’s new-ball bursts and Matthew Humphreys’ control in the middle overs. Campher’s all-round utility adds tactical flexibility. If Adair strikes early, this prediction could swing Ireland’s way.
Ireland Squad
Ireland
Lorcan Tucker, Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Sam Topping, Ben White, Craig Young
Zimbabwe
Sikandar Raza’s captaincy remains Zimbabwe’s heartbeat in this Ireland vs Zimbabwe match prediction. His composure and dual skill set provide balance, while his predicted role as top scorer and most sixes hitter reflects his centrality to ZIM’s game plan.
Brian Bennett adds stability at the top, but the defining edge comes from Blessing Muzarabani. His 4/17 against Australia shows why Zimbabwe can defend middling totals. On a surface offering early assistance, Muzarabani versus Ireland’s top order becomes the tactical battle to watch.
Zimbabwe’s playing XI likely sticks with a bowling-heavy structure to exploit Pallekele’s evolving pitch. With Raza anchoring and finishing, and Muzarabani striking early, ZIM appear marginally stronger on paper.
Zimbabwe Squad
Zimbabwe
Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava
IRE vs ZIM Prediction
Event | Ireland | Zimbabwe |
|---|---|---|
Toss Winner | Ireland | – |
Player of the Match | – | Sikandar Raza |
Top Run Scorer | Lorcan Tucker | Sikandar Raza |
Top Wicket Taker | Mark Adair | Blessing Muzarabani |
Most Sixes | Lorcan Tucker | Sikandar Raza |
Predicted Score | 170+ | 180+ |
Win Probability | 48% | 52% |
Ireland vs Zimbabwe Winning Prediction
Zimbabwe hold a narrow 52% edge in this Ireland vs Zimbabwe prediction due to their bowling firepower and Raza’s all-round control in pressure moments. While Ireland’s recent 96-run win shows momentum, ZIM’s ability to defend totals and strike early with Muzarabani gives them the tactical advantage at Pallekele. Can Tucker counter that threat and flip the script? Follow JeetBuzz for expert updates, stats, and deeper tactical analysis ahead of every ICC Men’s T20 World Cup clash.
FAQ: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 32nd Match
- What time does the Ireland vs Zimbabwe match start?
The match starts at 3:00 PM IST on February 17, 2026.
- Where is the Ireland vs Zimbabwe 32nd Match being played?
The game will be held at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
- Who is the key player to watch in IRE vs ZIM?
Sikandar Raza is a key player due to his all-round impact and leadership role for Zimbabwe.
