Cricket:Ed Rainsford's late hitting condemned Ireland to a last-ball defeat in the first One-Day International against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Ground.
Zimbabwe tailender Rainsford hit nine from three balls, including a six from the final delivery with the scores tied, to snatch a two-wicket win in the first of the three-match series.
Gary Wilson had earlier revived Ireland’s innings with 69 after they lost their first four wickets for 22 runs.
Wilson got support from Andrew White (47) in an 115-run stand for the fifth wicket but the visitors were bowled out for 200 as their failure to bat out the overs proved crucial.
Zimbabwe’s chase was initially paced by Tatenda Taibu’s 62 but a steady flow of wickets left them falling behind the required rate at six for 153 with seven overs remaining.
Teenage left-arm spinner George Dockrell made a stunning return to form to take three for 27 from his 10 overs,
Elton Chigumbura supplied some of the required late hitting with 41 from 32 balls, but when he fell at the end of the penultimate over to Trent Johnston, Rainsford strode to the crease with his side needing a further six runs.
Rainsford, who earlier took four for 23, ensured his match-winning display was complete as he drew his side level before thrashing the final delivery from Kevin O’Brien over the ropes.