Ireland book a place in 2015 Cricket World Cup after a sensational tie

Joyce helps Ireland secure a World Cup 2015 spot

Ireland have qualified for the 2015 World Cup to be held in Australia and New Zealand, courtesy a tied match between them and Netherlands in Amstelveen. Chasing 269 runs to win, Netherlands were left with needing 13 runs to win from the final over. Michael Rippon managed to hit a six of the last ball that helped Netherlands secure a tie and still be in contention for a World Cup spot.

Earlier in the match, William Porterfield, the captain of Ireland, won the toss and elected to bat first. Ed Joyce top scored for the team with an unbeaten 96 from 113 balls to help them post a total of 268 for the loss of 5 wickets. He was helped by a half century from Niall O’ Brien and run-a-ball 49 from opener Paul Stirling.

In reply, none of the Dutch batsmen were able to convert their starts but did enough to take the match close, thereby securing a tie. Wesley Barresi top scored for them with 46 runs of 67 balls.