Skip to content

Stirling effort boosts Ireland

Paul Stirling hit 71 off 41 balls as Ireland completed their preparations for the World Twenty20 with a five-run victory over Bangladesh in Colombo.

Latest Cricket Stories

Bangladesh collapse from strong position

Ireland warmed up for the World Twenty20 with a five-run win over Bangladesh in Colombo. Opening batsman Paul Stirling led the way with 71 off 41 balls as Ireland totalled 164-6 after being asked to bat at the Moors Sports Club Ground. Stirling, who hammered five fours and five sixes, was well supported by Will Porterfield (17) and Ed Joyce (39) during stands worth 46 and 64 for the first and second wickets respectively. Bangladesh hit back late on with left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan (2-21) claiming two wickets in the 17th over and seamer Mashrafe Mortaza (2-33) doing likewise in the 19th. The Tigers' run chase looked on course during a second-wicket alliance of 63 from 37 balls between Tamim Iqbal (35) and Shakib (52). From 79-1 in the eighth over, Bangladesh lost regular wickets - including 3-24 to medium pacer Kevin O'Brien - and ended up finishing short on 159-9. Ireland start their Group B campaign against Australia at the R.Premadasa Stadium on September 19, while Bangladesh take on New Zealand in the Group D opener in Pallekele two days later.

Around Sky