CWC Qualifiers 2023: Ireland beat USA by 6 wickets

In a gripping Play-off match for seventh place in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers, Ireland defeated USA by six wickets. The match displayed excellent cricket skills, with Craig Young leading Ireland’s bowling and captain Andy Balbirnie making significant contributions with the bat.

Winning the toss, Ireland elected to field first, a decision that proved beneficial as the USA struggled to find stability in their innings. The American side was bowled out for a modest 196 runs in 42.4 overs, falling short of the 200-run mark. Sushant Modani was the highest scorer for the USA, notching up a well-played 55 runs off 93 balls, including four boundaries. Saiteja Mukkamalla also made a valuable contribution, accumulating 55 runs from just 46 balls with five boundaries and one maximum. The duo formed a vital 88-run partnership, providing some respite after the loss of early wickets.

However, Ireland’s bowlers exhibited their skill and determination, causing a collapse in the latter stages of the USA’s innings. From a relatively strong position of 151/5, the USA slumped to 168/9, ultimately being bowled out for 196. Craig Young was the standout performer for Ireland, claiming three wickets for a mere 35 runs in his seven-over spell. Andy McBrine and Mark Adair also played their part, taking two wickets each.

Chasing a target of 197, Ireland’s batsmen showcased their class and determination, reaching the mark in just 34.2 overs with four wickets to spare. Opening batsman Paul Stirling led the charge for Ireland, displaying his attacking prowess and reaching a well-deserved half-century. He amassed 58 runs off 45 balls, smashing nine boundaries and two maximums along the way. The opening partnership between Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie set a solid foundation, crossing the 75-run mark. Balbirnie, who captained the Irish side, played a vital role by contributing 45 runs off just 28 balls, including five boundaries.

USA’s bowling attack struggled to contain the Irish batsmen, conceding a significant number of runs. Noshthush Kenjige managed to take two wickets but leaked 41 runs in his seven overs. Nisarg Ketankuma Patel and Abhishek Paradkar also claimed a wicket each but proved expensive, giving away 20 runs in six overs and 28 runs in three overs, respectively.