England vs Ireland Test Match: Ben Stokes & Co Dominate Day 1
Day 1 of the England vs Ireland Test saw Ben Stokes and his team dominate the Irish side, with Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope scoring centuries. Joe Root is also looking comfortable at the crease, with England’s lead extending past the 200-run mark.
Ireland’s Dismal Performance
Stuart Broad took a five-wicket haul as Ireland were bowled out for 172. Paul Stirling, James McCollum and Curtis Campher all got starts, but couldn’t convert them into big scores. England’s openers were in demolishing form, both scoring fifties, until Crawley was dismissed after a rash shot.
Line-Ups
Ireland’s Playing XI: James McCollum, PJ Moor, Andy Balbirnie (captain), Harry Tector, Paul Stirling, Lorcan Tucker (wicketkeeper), Curtis Campher, Andy McBrine, Mark Adair, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume.
England’s Playing XI: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Ben Stokes (captain), Harry Brook, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Stuart Broad, Matthew Parkinson, James Anderson, Jofra Archer.
Conclusion
England’s performance on Day 1 of the England vs Ireland Test was impressive, with Ben Stokes and his team firmly in control of the match. Ireland were unable to make any significant impact with the bat, and will need to put in a much better performance if they are to challenge England.