Blessing Muzarabani’s outstanding bowling performance stood out in Zimbabwe’s six-wicket loss to Ireland in the second ODI at Harare Sports Club on Sunday, earning praise from both camps.

The towering seamer’s precise bowling created early pressure, claiming the crucial wicket of Andy Balbirnie for 11. His economical 10-over spell, conceding just 52 runs, kept Zimbabwe in contention throughout the match.

Ireland’s player of the match Curtis Campher acknowledged Muzarabani’s impact: “The big lad bowled beautifully. We just tried to nullify the first few overs as long as we could.”

Irish captain Paul Stirling labeled Muzarabani an “X Factor bowler,” noting his team’s specific strategy against him.

 “He’s certainly got a lot of wickets against us, and we need to try and keep him as quiet as possible,” Stirling said.

Despite Muzarabani’s efforts, Ireland successfully chased down Zimbabwe’s total of 245, reaching 249/4 with eight balls remaining. Paul Stirling (89) and Curtis Campher (63) led Ireland’s response, while Zimbabwe’s innings featured half-centuries from Wessly Madhevere (61) and Sikandar Raza (58).

The series now stands level at 1-1, with the decisive match scheduled for tomorrow at Harare Sports Club. While Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine rued his team’s inability to post a more challenging total, Muzarabani’s performance suggests he will be key to their chances in the series decider.