Matthew Humphreys’ six-wicket haul seals Ireland’s 63-run victory over Zimbabwe in Bulawayo

Ireland roared to their third consecutive Test victory on Monday, dismantling Zimbabwe by 63 runs in Bulawayo, with spinner Matthew Humphreys delivering a sensational six-wicket haul to crush the hosts’ hopes.

Zimbabwe, resuming on 183-7 in pursuit of 292, crumbled to 228 all out as Humphreys, playing only his third Test, produced a career-best 6-57. His ruthless spell secured Ireland’s dominance and ensured another chapter in their growing Test legacy.

The victory was even more remarkable given Ireland’s disastrous start. Choosing to bat first, they found themselves in utter disarray at 31-5 on the opening day, their top order falling for single figures. But a heroic seventh-wicket stand between Andy McBrine (90 not out) and Mark Adair (78) salvaged the innings, dragging them to 260 all out.

Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani ran riot with figures of 7-58, but their batting lineup failed to capitalise. Despite fighting back to reach 228 in their first innings, their chase collapsed under pressure, with Humphreys tearing through their defences.

McBrine, the architect of Ireland’s first-innings recovery, fittingly sealed the match by taking the final wicket, capping off a dominant all-round performance.

This latest triumph continues Ireland’s stunning Test resurgence after a torrid start to their red-ball journey. Having lost their first seven Tests—including two against England at Lord’s—they finally turned the tide last year with victories over Afghanistan and Zimbabwe. Now, with three successive wins under their belt, Ireland’s Test future looks brighter than ever.

Next, the two sides will battle it out in three ODIs and three T20s, with Ireland carrying all the momentum into the white-ball series.