Ireland wrapped up their 2013 ODI campaign with a comprehensive win over Scotland at the Stormont ground in Belfast. The only issue at stake today was whether or not Ireland would maintain their unbeaten home record against Associate countries. The World Cricket League Championship and World Cup qualification had been secured in July in Amsterdam and the presentation of the trophy to Ireland captain William Porterfield was made after today’s game by ICC’S global development manager Tim Anderson.
In what was a relatively low key game Scotland had difficulty in getting motivated following their devastating loss on Friday which ended their hopes of automatic qualification. They won the toss on a cloudy morning and decided to bat. Ireland made two changes from Friday with Trent Johnston and Tim Murtagh withdrawing through injury. Stuart Thompson made his ODI debut and joined the recalled Andrew White in the team. It was the most inexperienced seam bowling attack Ireland have fielded for many years with Thompson, Eddie Richardson and Max Sorensen having only six caps between them, including today’s match.
It made no difference as Ireland bowled out Scotland for 165 in the 50th over as the visitors struggled throughout their innings to achieve any fluency. Only McLeod and Berrington showed any real heart for the battle with 39 and 35 respectively as the Ireland attack maintained pressure throughout the innings. Stuart Thompson had a very impressive debut producing pace and control and only conceded 20 runs in 9.3 overs and taking two deserved wickets. He was well supported by Kevin O’Brien with 3 for 31, Max Sorensen 3 for 36 and Eddie Richardson 2 for 39.
Despite losing William Porterfield (5) and Paul Stirling (13) early Ireland romped to victory in just 33 overs for the loss of three wickets. A partnership of 69 between Ed Joyce and Niall O’Brien took the sting out of the Scotland attack. Joyce fell for a well-made 39 but Gary Wilson joined O’Brien to see Ireland home. Niall O’Brien finished unbeaten on 65 and Gary Wilson emerged from his recent batting slump to make 35 which included the only six of the match.
Next stop for Ireland is a 4 day Intercontinental Cup match against the same opposition in Clontarf starting next Wednesday.
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