Williams, Raza star in return as Zimbabwe edge Ireland Wolves in warm-up

Zimbabwe stars Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza made critical returns to the fold as they were instrumental in the team’s five-run win over Ireland Wolves in a warm-up match on Monday.

Sean Williams of Zimbabwe celebrates taking the wicket of Ehsan Khan of Hong Kong (unseen) during the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Queens Sports Club on March 10, 2018 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (©ICC).

The match was reduced to 40 overs each due to a wet outfield and Zimbabwe, having chosen to bat first amassed a moderate 171 for the loss of nine wickets .

Williams top-scored with 39, followed by a late charge of 32 from Luke Jongwe in the final over.

The opening partnership was Brendan Taylor and Regis Chakabva, the former going out for a duck and the latter just eight.

Raza scored 18.

Matt Ford returned two for 28 and Barry McCarthy two 38.

Raza took three for 36 and was instrumental in keeping Wolves under check. Tendai Chatara was impressive, conceding 11 runs from five overs and taking one wicket. Wessly Madhevere was one for 18 from seven overs.

Murray Commins top-scored with 56.

Zimbabwe and Ireland proper kick off their ODI World Cup Super League series on Wednesday.