Paul Stirling smashed a magnificent century to inspire Ireland to a 75-run victory over the Netherlands in the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Qualifier at the Maple Leaf 4 in Toronto.
There were also wins for host Canada, Papua New Guinea and USA on an eventful opening day of the tournament.
Stirling hit 102 off 117 balls as Ireland, batting first, scored an impressive 254-5 against the Netherlands. James Shannon provided excellent support with a quick-fire 50 off just 41 balls.
Opening bowler Shane Getkate then reduced Netherlands to 13-4 and although Philip van den Brandeler made a brave 85, the Dutch never looked like reaching the target as it closed on 179-9.
‘I am just happy we got the win to be honest. It was hard early on but we managed to keep wickets in hands and make a big score. We thought 250 was well above par,’ said the 18-year-old Stirling.
‘Our aim is to just keep winning and make the qualifier. One of our ambitions is to come here and win the tournament and send a message to the Test teams that when we qualify we are going to be up for the event.’
