Looking to win the Colonial T20 Series against West Indies Ireland were comprehensively trounced in the third and final match of the series. Their batting and bowling never reached the heights of last Wednesday and the West Indies highlighted the huge gap between both teams. In reality, Ireland did well to beat them once, and a fortuitous abandoned draw on Saturday, which allowed them to share the 3-Match Series.
Once again Ireland were inserted and once again the openers got off to a flying start, particularly O’Brien (36). At 50 in 4 overs it promised much, but when the openers fell only skipper Balbirnie (26) and McCarthy (18no) reached double figures. Pollard and Bravo benefitted from some soft catches and Ireland could have been dismissed for less than 100, but McCarthy hit several big shots to reach 138.
Simmons (91no) and Lewis (46) completed the carnage with a 9-wicket win in 11 overs. Simmons (10 sixes) and Lewis (3 sixes) were ruthless, and Ireland desperately missed the absence of big Boyd Rankin.
With several young players in Ireland’s squad they will have learned from the experience. Certainly, they are the future and should be pushed to the forefront at every opportunity in forthcoming matches.
Facing West Indies on their home ground would be daunting for any top nations so Ireland can be proud that they mixed with the best albeit they didn’t fire in every match. Head Coach Phil Simmons has rejuvenated West Indies cricket with some exciting young newcomers and a few experienced men. Ireland should be proud they have reached this level.
IRELAND 138 (O’Brien 36/Balbirnie 26/McCarthy 18no/Pollard 3-17/Bravo 3-19)
WEST INDIES 140-1 (Simmons 91no/Lewis 46)
West Indies won by 9 wickets
Series has drawn 1-1
JCH
