Irish enthusiasm undimmed by tough baptism

It feels like such a long time since we played and won our two warm-up matches against Northern Districts in Hamilton last week, dusted off some winter cobwebs and got over the jet lag. The squad are in good form and will be looking for top performances against strong opposition in the first couple of games against NZ and Australia.

In additon to skipper Miriam Grealey, key players will be Caitriona Beggs (vice captain), Karen Young, Catherine O'Neill and Saibh Young who provide steady contributions with both bat and ball. We look forward to some debut World Cup performances from Anne Linehan, Karen Young, Isobel Joyce, Ciara Metcalfe and Lara Molins.

FRIDAY 1ST DECEMBER The Irish squad, led by captain Miriam Grealey, took on the Kiwis in their opening match of the CricInfo Women's World Cup at the BIL Oval today.

Having won the toss, Ireland elected to bat; openers Karen Young and Anne Linehan faced the accurate bowling of Rachel Pullar and Clare Nicholson before Young was run out for 2 in the fifth over. Skipper Grealey came to the crease at 5-1 and made 9 before being caught by Pullar off Haidee Tiffen.

Beggs entered the fray looking confident, faced 105 balls and hit one four. She partnered six batsmen before being run out for 31 in the 49th over. The solid partnership of 43 runs between Beggs and Squire rescued Ireland from what could have been a less than desirable start to our world cup campaign.

In reply, NZ openers looked solid with Flannery and Rolls putting on 38 runs before Rolls was run out (Joyce) for 19. Next up Anna O'Leary scored a steady 26 runs (44 balls) before being caught by a blinding catch at point by Barbara McDonald.

The Clear White Ferns completed the task in 24.5 overs with Flannery named CricInfo Player of the Match for her innings of 49* (69 balls).

We look forward to our next match on Sunday against Australia at the Hagley Oval.