Stirling soars as Ireland beat Zimbabwe

Paul Stirling's brilliant 83 not out from just 36 balls powered Ireland to a nine wicket win against Zimbabwe in the second T20 international at Bready. The 'Belfast Blaster' clubbed 7 sixes and 6 fours in a magnificent display of controlled aggression as the Boys in Lime Green romped home with 13 balls to spare as they chased down a DLS target of 134 in 13 overs.

Stirling 8th ODI half century came from 21 balls as he and Kevin O'Brien (19) shared an opening stand of 58 in five overs, before the Railway Union man fell to a brilliant catch over his shoulder by Kyle Jarvis. Andy Balbirnie (28*) joined his former Middlesex colleague and the pair produced a batting masterclass as they added 76 from just 35 balls to seal a remarkable win against what looked a challenging total.

Paul Stirling in full flow (©CricketEurope)

Earlier Craig Ervine smashed 55 from 32 balls and Sean Williams 34 from 12 balls - both clearing the ropes three times as Zimbabwe raced out of the blocks before they were pegged back in the closing stages. Mark Adair on his T20 international debut claimed 4 for 40 and Craig Young 2-20 on his return to the international set-up at his former stomping ground. There was also a debut for Leinster leg-spinning all-rounder Gareth Delany, while Greg Thompson also played.

Josh Little and George Dockrell were left out, but will be expected to play in the third and final T20 at the same venue on Sunday (4pm). There are doubts however over Boyd Rankin's participation (groin strain), and it may be a case of resting the paceman with the Lord's Test just ten days away.