Gary Wilson top-scored for Ireland as they slumped to defeat on Wednesday

Ireland crashed to a seven-wicket defeat by Zimbabwe 'A' in South Africa in their second warm-up game for the World Cup qualifiers next month.

The Irish were skittled out for 118 in 38 overs with only Surrey wicket-keeper Gary Wilson (56) and Andrew White (12) getting into double figures.

Mbekezele Mabuza hit an unbeaten 46 and Cephas Zhuwawo blasted a quick 45 as Zimbabwe cruised to 120-3 in 28 overs.

Ireland lost by a wicket in their opener against an Eastern Province XI.

Wednesday's encounter in Benoni was brought forward by 24 hours to allow the Irish an extra practice fixture.

Wilson's 56 came off exactly 100 deliveries, hitting five fours and a six, as Ireland struggled to cope with a lively Zimbabwe attack.

Tendai Chisuro (3-26) and Tatadzwa Kamungozi (2-13) wreaked havoc with the Irish top order, reducing them at one stage to 59-7.

One of those was England Lions batsman Eoin Morgan who made just two before being run out.

Skipper William Porterfield also managed just two, but that was more then Kevin O'Brien (one) and Andrew Poynter and Alex Cusack, who both failed to score.

Trent Johnston and Peter Connell both made nine, while Regan West and Boyd Rankin each managed seven.

Opening bowlers Boyd Rankin and Peter Connell both picked up a wicket, but Cephas Zhuwawo's 45 from just 33 balls left the result in no doubt.

Johnston (1-19) was the other wicket taker for the Irish.

Andre Botha and Kyle McCallan again missed out with injury, and Botha in particular must be a major doubt for the opening World Cup qualifier with Scotland next Wednesday.

Ireland face Afghanistan on Thursday before playing UAE in their final warm-up game on Sunday.

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