Ireland have begun their World Cup campaign with a stunning four wicket victory over the West Indies in Nelson.
Ireland faced a daunting chase of 304 after a strong batting performance from Lendl Simmons (102) and Darren Sammy (89), but Paul Stirling (92), Ed Joyce (84) and Niall O'Brien (79 not out), led Ireland to a four wicket win.
Ireland won the toss and elected to field first, and it initially seemed a wise decision as the West Indies started slowly. Chris Gayle (36), Dwayne Smith (18), Darren Bravo (nought), Marlon Samuels (21) and Denesh Ramdin (one) all retired before Simmons and Sammy swung the game towards the Windies. Sammy piled on the runs, hitting four sixes and nine fours as he clocked up his 89 off just 67 balls.
With the partnership with Simmons amassing 154 of just 127 balls, the complexion of the game changed sharply as the West Indies added 198 runs in the final 20 overs. Andre Russell closed out with 27 off 13.
Paul Simmons’ side began brightly, with Stirling and William Porterfield hitting 71 for the first wicket, and reaching the century in the 19th over through Joyce.
Joyce reached his half-century on his 39th ball, with Ireland reaching 177 in the 28th over when the second wicket fell as Stirling made way.
Joyce was caught out with Ireland on 273 in the 40th over.
Joyce’s departure threatened to bring about a rapid collapse, as four wickets fell as they added just 18 runs.
However, O’Brien steadied the ship, scoring his 79 without dismissal.
Ireland's next game is against the UAE, on Friday February 25.
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