Ireland task taking shape in Zimbabwe

THERE was good and bad news for Ireland from Zimbabwe as the Boys in Green sat out the latest round of World Cup qualifying group matches, with the big shock being a third straight defeat for pretournament favourites Afghanistan.

Hong Kong provided the upset, winning a rain-shortened match by 30 runs (D/L method) in Bulawayo, to leave Afghan coach Phil Simmons (above) and his assistant John Mooney almost certain to miss out on the Super Sixes, never mind one of the World Cup berths.

Scotland maintained their 100pc record in Group B by beating Nepal and are assured of a spot in the next stage.

If Ireland’s chances were improved by the demise of Afghanistan, there was less cheer from their own Group A, where the UAE beat the Netherlands and the West Indies eased past Papua New Guinea.

The UAE’s second win makes them firm favourites to progress. Ireland play the West Indies at the Harare Sports Club tomorrow and will need to beat the UAE on Monday to ensure they take at least one win into the Super Sixes.