Stirling ton has Ireland in rude health

3 July 2009

Paul Stirling underlined his huge potential with an even hundred on the first day of Ireland's match with Kenya

Ireland made a steady start to the defence of their ICC Intercontinental Cup crown as they reached 323 for seven by the end of a rain-affected opening day against Kenya.

Early morning rain in Northern Ireland delayed the start at Woodvale Road in Eglinton, but openers Jeremy Bray and Paul Stirling made up for lost time to add 182 for the first wicket.

Bray finally fell for a 121-ball 89 when he was caught by Steve Tikolo off seamer Nehemiah Odhiambo.

Stirling then reached his ton but failed to add another run as he edged a Peter Ongondo ball behind to skipper and wicketkeeper Maurice Ouma.

Alex Cusack took up the fight and made 63, but five wickets from Tikolo, who finished the day with figures of 20-1-67-5, put the East Africans back in contention.