Balbirnie’s Composed Century Powers Ireland to Dominant Win Over West Indies

Led by a patient and composed century from Andrew Balbirnie, Ireland secured a commanding 124-run victory over the West Indies in the first ODI of the three-match series held at The Village in Dublin.

Ireland’s innings began cautiously, with skipper Paul Stirling and Balbirnie laying a solid foundation through a steady opening stand. Stirling reached his half-century off 61 balls but couldn’t build on the start, departing soon after.

Balbirnie, however, anchored the innings superbly. After a slow start, he found his rhythm midway through the innings, notably targeting Roston Chase to regain momentum. His partnership with Harry Tector added 80 valuable runs and pushed Ireland close to the 300-run mark. While both set batters departed before the final overs, Lorcan Tucker’s brisk cameo ensured Ireland finished strongly at 304.

In reply, West Indies crumbled under early pressure. Evin Lewis was run out early, and Barry McCarthy tore through the top order with a fiery spell. At one stage, the visitors were reeling at 31 for 5, effectively putting the game out of reach. Shai Hope fell cheaply, and although Justin Greaves offered brief resistance with a 14-ball 34, Josh Little ended his charge.

The only meaningful partnership for the West Indies came from Roston Chase and Matthew Forde, who added 98 runs together. However, their dismissals triggered a swift collapse, with the innings folding just 13 balls later. The Caribbean side was bowled out for 179, handing Ireland a comprehensive win.

Barry McCarthy was the standout bowler for Ireland, claiming 4 wickets and dismantling the West Indies’ top order.

With this win, Ireland takes a 1–0 lead in the three-match series. The second ODI is scheduled for May 23 at the same venue.