IRE vs ZIM Prediction Match 32- Who Will Win Today? ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Ireland vs Zimbabwe match prediction [Source: @ICC, @ZimCricketv/X.com]

Ireland is going to play against Zimbabwe in the 32nd match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The match will take place on Tuesday, February 17, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium at 3:00 PM IST.

Zimbabwe will arrive at this clash riding a wave of belief after a stunning win over Australia, a result that has reshaped their ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. 

Blessing Muzarabani’s fiery spell is a hint of their growing confidence and discipline with the ball. Ireland, though boosted by a big win over Oman, will face fresh concerns with Paul Stirling ruled out. 

With momentum firmly on Zimbabwe’s side, this contest promises intensity and plenty at stake.

IRE vs ZIM current form (last 5 games)

IRE vs ZIM: Key Player Battles

Lorcan Tucker vs Blessing Muzarabani 

Muzarabani’s steep bounce and ability to hit the hard length make him Zimbabwe’s biggest threat with the new ball. Lorcan Tucker, fresh from a fluent 94*, has been Ireland’s most assured batter in the tournament. 

If Tucker can weather the early storm and counter the bounce with smart strokeplay square of the wicket, Ireland settle. But if Blessing Muzarabani strikes early, Zimbabwe seize control immediately.

Sikandar Raza vs Harry Tector

Raza’s experience and subtle variations through the middle overs could test Harry Tector’s temperament. Tector likes to build an innings before accelerating, but Raza’s accuracy can dry up scoring options. This battle may decide who owns the crucial middle phase.

Ryan Burl vs Josh Little

Burl’s promotion up the order has added muscle to Zimbabwe’s batting. Ireland pacer Josh Little, with his left-arm angle and change-ups, will look to disrupt that momentum. Whoever wins this face-off could swing the match.

IRE vs ZIM Top Performers

(Considering players from the current squad)

Most runs for IRE vs ZIM

Harry Tector (238), George Dockrell (205)

Most wickets for IRE vs ZIM

Mark Adair (24), Craig Young (18)

Most runs for ZIM vs IRE

Ryan Burl (308), Sikandar Raza (216)

Most wickets for ZIM vs IRE

Richard Ngarava (15), Ryan Burl (13)

IRE vs ZIM Toss Prediction

Given the humidity in Kandy and the possibility of dew settling in later, captains may prefer to chase. The surface will slow down as the match wears on, but the evening dew may make it difficult for the spinners to grip the ball well in the second innings. 

With the average scores likely to be around the 150s, the teams may fancy their chances of defending and then setting the pace accordingly. The toss-winning team is likely to bowl first and keep the conditions in their favour.

Ireland vs Zimbabwe 1st innings score prediction

Powerplay: 48/2

Final score: 170

Ireland vs Zimbabwe 2nd innings score prediction

Powerplay: 50/2

Final score: 175

IRE vs ZIM top players prediction

IRE's top players

Probable best batters

Harry Tector, Curtis Campher

Probable best bowlers

Joshua Little, Craig Young

ZIM's top players

Probable best batters

Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl

Probable best bowlers

Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani

Who will hit the most sixes in the Ireland vs Zimbabwe Match 32?

Sikandar Raza

Who will hit the most fours in the Ireland vs Zimbabwe Match 32?

Harry Tector

IRE vs ZIM Match Winner Prediction: Who Will Win Match 32?

Zimbabwe arrive with confidence after their statement win, but this feels like a tightly balanced contest. Ireland’s batting depth, especially if the top order fires again, gives them the edge on a surface where 150-165 could be par. 

However, Zimbabwe’s pace attack, led by Muzarabani, might turn the match around in no time. There is expected to be a tight contest in the middle overs, with Ireland edging past if they cope with the pressure better.