Daring Ireland sent Pakistan packing out of World Cup
Pakistan were sent crashing out of World Cup 2007 after their three-wicket defeat at the hands of minnows Ireland in a Group D encounter at Sabina Park, Kingston. The Irishmen showed exemplary class and grit to take on a good Pakistani squad and reserve their berth in the Super Eights almost certainly.
Batting first, Pakistan were bowled out for a paltry 132 in 45.4 overs. Irish bowlers Boyd Rankin (3-32), Andre Botha (2-5) and Kyle McCallan (2-12) ensured that Pakistani batsmen did not settle down. The only worthwhile score came from wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal, who made 27 runs in 47 balls. Pakistan kept losing wickets at regular intervals and were never able to recover from early setbacks. Ireland’s fielding and catching were also par excellence - they made the right moves and were matchlessly agile on the field.
Chasing a low target of 132 on a pitch that assisted bowlers, Ireland started off as a team that was confident of winning. Many in the top order went off meekly and the score read 4-70 at one point. However, for Pakistan, the damage had already been done as Irish wicketkeeper Niall O’Brien kept cruising towards the target even though wickets kept tumbling at the other end.
Almost single-handedly, Brien (72 off 107) held fort and saw his team to victory, with some support from the middle order. Without any foolish strokes or unnecessary flashiness, Brien paced his innings with solidity and determination. He was eventually stumped by Akmal off a Mohammad Sami delivery.
For Pakistan, Sami was the prime bowler, claiming three wickets for 29 runs. However, the bowlers could not do much as the target was far below expectations and the Irishmen were not wiling to let go. Ireland reached the required total in 41.4 overs after the loss of seven wickets.
The Ireland vs. Pakistan Group D match will be regarded as one of the biggest upsets of ICC Cricket World Cup 2007. Pakistan have been thrown out of the tournament with this second loss in row. Ireland are now almost certain to go on to the Super Eights, unless Zimbabwe cause another major upset against West Indies.
Brief Score: Pakistan 132 (Akmal 27, Rankin 3-32) vs. Ireland 133/7 (N O'Brien 72, K O'Brien 16*)
Result: Ireland won by three wickets
Man of the Match: Niall O’Brien
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