Ireland secured an incredible 3-wicket victory over England in Bangalore, India today in a group B match of the ongoing World Cup 2011. A record-breaking innings of 113 off 63 by Kevin O’Brien helped Ireland to successfully chase down England’s big total of 327 runs.
Winning the toss, England captain Andrew Strauss decided to bat first and his batsmen proved his decision true with their sensible batting. After a 91-run opening partnership between Strauss and Pietersen, England’s middle order built on the momentum given by the openers. Pietersen played a good innings of 59 off just 50 balls. Strauss’ 37-ball innings came to an end when he was played on by Dockrell on 34.
Trott and Bell added 167 runs for the third wickets. Trott missed his hundred just for 8 runs, while Bell fell on 81. Despite having a good platform given by the top order batsmen, England’s lower middle order failed to score quickly in the slog overs. After 50 overs, England could score 327 runs, losing 8 wickets.
In reply, Ireland did not have a good start as they lost Porterfield’s wickets in the first ball of the innings. At one stage, Ireland was struggling at 111 for 5, leaving Kevin O’Brien and Alex Cusack in the wicket.
Kevin and Cusack then pulled the string for Ireland, contributing 162 runs off just 103 runs for the sixth wickets. Kevin literally steamrolled the English bowling attack with his magnificent innings. Here, it is noteworthy that he made the record for fastest hundred in World Cup by reaching three figures in 50 balls.
Cusack missed the half-century just for 3 runs, but his 58-ball innings played a big role in Irish victory. Later on, Mooney’s unbeaten 33 off 30 balls ensured Ireland’s triumph.
Among the English bowlers, only Graeme Swann could show some resistance, picking up 3 wickets for 47 runs.
Kevin O’Brien was man of the match for his extraordinary innings.
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