SHARJAH: Round 1 match: Ireland’s dream of entering the Super 12s was bruised by the Eagles sharp talons where Namibia Eagles went on to win convincingly by 8 wickets.
Ireland batting first after winning the toss was restricted to only 125 for 8 wickets in 20 overs. Openers Paul Stirling (38 off 24 balls) and Kevin O’Brien 25 off 24 balls put together an opening partnership of 62.However, after the fall of Striling in the 7th over, O’Brien soon followed in the 8th over due to brilliant bowling spell by Jan Frylink (3 wickets for 21 runs). The Irish innings faltered thereafter with wickets tumbling at regular intervals.
Chasing a modest total of 125, the Eagles were cautious in batting as a memorable victory was on the horizon. Openers Craig Williams (15 runs) and Zane Green (24 runs) chased at a moderate pace.. At the end of the 15th over Namibia required 33 runs off 30 balls with 8 wickets in hand. Namibia Captain Erasmus (53 runs) and David Wiese (28 runs) scored valuable runs to ensure the eagles fly past Ireland to the Super 12s.
Namibia reached 126 in 18.3 overs to claim a memorable win by 8 wickets
The Group A, top 2 teams are now confirmed, accordingly Sri Lanka(A1) and Namibia (A2) will play in the Super 12s round. (RZ)
[Image credit icc-cricket.com]
