Ireland make solid start to ICC Intercontinental Cup clash with Papua New Guinea
Niall O'Brien top-scored with 63 as Ireland made a solid start to their ICC Intercontinental Cup clash with Papua New Guinea at Townsville.
O’Brien hit four boundaries in his 168-ball stay but will be disappointed to have lost his wicket shortly before the close on a weather-hit opening day when 21 overs were lost to a combination of bad light and rain as Ireland closed on 232 for five.
A sluggish pitch and a slow outfield helped Papua New Guinea keep Ireland in check and the rate never got above three runs an over.
Gary Wilson hit five boundaries as he made 48 and supported O’Brien in a fourth-wicket stand of 69 in the best partnership of the day before being trapped lbw by Chad Soper.