Wednesday, 14 March 2012

Porterfield Leads Ireland Comeback


Ireland bounced back from their first-day defeat at the ICC World Twenty20 qualifier in Dubai with a 10-wicket victory over Kenya.

The favourites for the tournament were shocked by Namibia on day one but never looked in danger against Kenya, who they bowled out for 71 before captain Will Porterfield scored an aggressive 56 not out to lead the chase.

Kenya won the toss but will regret batting first as they lost both openers to Boyd Rankin inside three overs.

The paceman also accounted for skipper Collins Obuya to finish with figures of 3-20.

Wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals, with only Tanmay Mishra (28) reaching double figures.

Alex Cusack, John Mooney and George Dockrell all picked up two wickets as the innings was rounded up with an over to spare.

Ireland's reply was emphatic, with Porterfield dominating the bowling and Paul Stirling chipping in with 15 not out.

Porterfield faced 27 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes, as Ireland crossed the line after only 7.2 overs.