New Zealand’s Dean Foxcroft scored a half-century on his Test debut against Ireland. The tourists reached 400 runs after initially struggling at 86-4. Tom Blundell also reached a personal milestone, bringing up his 150.
Foxcroft and Blundell Build Partnership
Tom Blundell (142) and Dean Foxcroft (38) started the day aiming to build on their 58-run partnership. Foxcroft cut Reuben Wilson away for the first runs of the day, scampers for three. The partnership extended to 70 as Dean Foxcroft flicks a lifting Reuben Wilson delivery behind for two runs.
Dean Foxcroft got a single off Tom Mayes and was six runs away from a half-century on his Test debut. He then reached his 50 on Test debut, cutting away for a single. The 100-run partnership between Foxcroft and Tom Blundell came up in 105.1 overs thanks to a Dean Foxcroft single.
Tom Blundell got back just in time after sprinting two runs before easing through point for a single. Tom Blundell then slapped a short one from Liam McCarthy down the ground for four, with seven runs coming from the over. He later brought up his 150 with an edge to the third-man boundary, and the next Tom Mayes delivery went for four leg-byes.
Ireland’s Bowling Attack
Ireland introduced spin at the Dundonald End in the form of Andy McBrine, who went for three runs in his opening over. Tom Mayes opened with a maiden from the Dundonald End. Two runs came off Tom Mayes’ second over of the day, described as a bit sedate so far.
Three runs came from the latest Tom Mayes over, with Ireland’s three Test debutants plugging away this morning. Three runs also came from the latest Tom Mayes over, with the Black Caps still having five wickets in hand. Seven runs came from Liam McCarthy’s over.
Ireland’s top bowler Mark Adair has yet to appear for this morning session due to a stomach complaint. Adair, who took three wickets yesterday, has been replaced on the field by Matthew Humphreys. It is hoped that Mark Adair isn’t seriously injured, as Ireland need him if they’re going to claim a win or even get close to doing it.
Ireland’s Perspective
Ireland need to strike early to stay in touch with the Black Caps. It’s looking ominous for Ireland with the Black Caps still with five wickets in hand. One observer suggested bringing in Tector early to upset Foxcroft and Blundell, saying that Ireland can’t let them settle or the Test is over, and with Adair injured, luck is against them and Ireland need a miracle.
Ireland’s Liam McCarthy, who claimed a wicket from Kane Williamson on the first day, spoke about the team’s start, saying, “We got a really good start, the first hour was unbelievable.”
New Zealand have a 3.73 run-rate for the 100 overs bowled so far. Ireland women are also in action today as they begin their preparations for the T20 World Cup next month with a tri-series against Pakistan and West Indies in Clontarf, starting with a game against the West Indies at 16:00.