Ireland ‘A’ have arrived in Zimbabwe ahead of a seven-match series against Zimbabwe ‘A’, bringing the visiting side to Harare for a tour that begins this Thursday.

The team touched down at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Monday night, marking the start of their preparations for the encounters, which will be staged at Harare Sports Club and Old Hararians Sports Club.

The series presents an important opportunity for players from both sides to gain valuable match experience, test their abilities and compete against opposition from a different cricketing environment. While team Zimbabwe ‘A’, playing at home offers an opportunity to showcase the country’s emerging cricket talent while giving players a chance to strengthen their claims for higher-level selection.

Ireland ‘A’ will also be keen to make the most of the tour, using the seven-match programme to assess their squad, build combinations and give their players valuable exposure to conditions away from home.

The choice of Harare Sports Club and Old Hararians Sports Club provides two established cricket venues for the series. Both grounds have hosted domestic and international cricket, making them familiar settings for competitive cricket in the capital.

As for local cricket followers, the arrival of the Irish side adds another international dimension to Zimbabwe’s cricket calendar. The matches will also provide an opportunity to follow some of the players looking to establish themselves on the bigger stage.