HARARE, FEB 15: Brian Bennett struck a one-day international best 169 as Zimbabwe defeated Ireland by 49 runs in Harare on Friday in the first of three matches.
The 21-year-old opener and 39-year-old captain Craig Ervine (66) played key roles as the home side posted 299 for five in 50 overs.
A 73-run mid-innings partnership between George Dockrell (32) and Andy McBrine (34) offered hope to the tourists, but both fell within four balls and Ireland were all out for 250 in 46 overs.
Dockrell and McBrine were dispatched by Blessing Muzarabani, whose 4 for 51 were the best figures among the Zimbabwe bowlers. Bennett, whose previous best ODI knock was 37, said: "I was lucky to get a chance to open and lucky that things went in my favour.
"I enjoy the new ball in white-ball cricket. There had been some talk about me opening. It was a tricky start, but the pitch was good. Not much swing and not much in the deck."
Ervine said: "Benny (Bennett) batted extremely well, with perfect tempo. You have to capitalise on your chances, and he did. —AFP
