Ireland Sets Target and Secures Thrilling Win Over Netherlands in Tri-Series Opener
The Hague, Netherlands – Ireland’s cricket team kicked off their tri-series campaign with a nail-biting one-run victory over the Netherlands on Sunday.
Batting first, Ireland set a target of 151 runs. Mark Adair played a key role, scoring 49 runs off 24 balls, including seven fours and two sixes, helping Ireland reach 150-8 in their 20 overs.
Fionn Hand then changed the game with his impressive bowling, taking 3-18. His crucial 16th over saw him dismiss Bas de Leede (32) and Teja Nidamanuru in quick succession.
Despite Tim Pringle’s incredible late hitting (35* from 13 balls), the Netherlands fell short. They needed 20 runs from the final over and three from the last ball, but Adair’s tight bowling (2-34) restricted Pringle to a single, sealing Ireland’s dramatic win.
Earlier, the Netherlands had won the toss and opted to field, quickly removing Ireland’s top order, including Andrew Balbirnie, Paul Stirling, and Harry Tector. Lorcan Tucker, continuing his good form, top-scored with 40 runs off 30 balls, but fell in the 12th over to Tim Pringle. Gareth Delany (18*) and Adair’s efforts ensured a competitive total for Ireland.
In response, the Netherlands started steadily, but Curtis Campher’s wicket-taking in the powerplay put Ireland in control. Campher ended with two wickets and was the pick of the bowlers until Hand’s game-changing spell.
After Hand’s 16th over heroics, Ireland seemed set for a win until Pringle’s late charge caused some nerves. However, Adair’s calm finish ensured Ireland’s victory. Ireland will face Scotland next at the same venue on Monday.
These tri-series matches are crucial for preparations for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and could influence qualification for the 2026 event. Ireland is currently ranked 11th, Scotland 13th, and the Netherlands 15th in ICC’s world rankings.