New Zealand completed a dominant victory over Ireland by an innings and 79 runs at Stormont in Belfast, providing ideal preparation for their upcoming Test series against England. The tourists wrapped up the match with four sessions to spare on the third day, as Blair Tickner claimed five wickets for 76 runs to bowl out Ireland for 232 in their second innings after they were forced to follow on.
Dominant Performance from New Zealand
Ireland resumed on 65 for two, still trailing by 246 runs after New Zealand declared on 490 for eight on the second day. The Black Caps continued their stranglehold on the match early on the third morning, with Nathan Smith removing nightwatchman Tom Mayes for five. Tickner then struck to have Harry Tector caught by Tom Latham in the slips, leaving the hosts on 75 for four.
Doheny and Tucker Show Resistance
Opener Stephen Doheny fought hard for his 57 before falling to Tickner, leaving Ireland on 104 for five. Wicketkeeper Lorcan Tucker contributed a half-century (50), and Mark Adair remained unbeaten on 44, but the lower order could not prevent the inevitable. Curtis Campher was forced to retire hurt after taking a blow to the hand.
Selection Headache for Black Caps
The performances of Smith, who took six wickets in the first innings, and Tickner will give New Zealand a selection dilemma ahead of the first Test against England at Lord's next week. Matt Henry, Will O'Rourke, and Kyle Jamieson have all travelled to London early to prepare for the three-match Test series and could come into contention for the starting XI.
