Tony Munyonga guided Zimbabwe to a three-wicket victory over Ireland in the second Twenty20 international in Harare.
After the opening T20 was abandoned due to rain, Ireland batted first and set a chase of 137.
Trevor Gwandu shone for Zimbabwe, taking three wickets for 24 runs.
Craig Young’s four wickets troubled Zimbabwe early on, but the hosts rallied through Munyonga’s unbeaten 43 off 30 balls and claimed the match with four balls to spare.
Player of the Match Munyonga was delighted to take the hosts over the line.
“We sort of liked to put ourselves in a position where we just needed to keep on batting and get the team over the line. Obviously, that’s the end goal, but being in the process and enjoying the moment as well. I think that was the most important thing that we talked about (in the middle). I think it goes a long way (today’s innings),” Munyonga said.
Zimbabwe can claim the three-match series in the final T20 between the sides on Tuesday, while Ireland require victory to draw the contest.
Scores in brief
Zimbabwe 141-7 (19.2 overs): Munyonga 43; Young 4-24, Tector 1-5
Ireland 137-8 (20 overs): Tucker 46; Gwandu 3-24, Sikandar Raza 2-22
Zimbabwe win by three wickets