Ireland in good position against Papua New Guinea at InterContinental Cup

Kevin O’Brien and Andy McBrine helped Ireland set up a good chance of victory against Papua New Guinea in the InterContinental Cup.

The pair put on 115 in only 139 balls as Ireland recovered from 129 for five to declare on 244 for five and set their opponents an imposing target of 346. O’Brien hit 75 not out from 95 balls, with McBrine unbeaten on 40.

PNG had earlier been bowled out for 188 despite Asad Vala making 120, Tim Murtagh with four wickets and the returning Boyd Rankin three as Ireland claimed a first-innings lead and six points in the competition standings.

Murtagh removed Lega Siaka in the evening session but PNG finished the day 50 for one, with Vani Morea on 18 and Vala 17. They need another 296 runs to win, with Ireland requiring nine wickets.