New Zealand’s last-ditch efforts pay off against Ireland

Michael Bracewell’s ton paved the way for New Zealand’s one-wicket win over Ireland in the first one-day international between the two sides. Bracewell even smashed 24 runs in the last over, which includes the six off of the last ball to seize the dramatic match. Black Caps were 5-120 far off from their target at 22 over until Bracewell’s knock of 127 not out off 82 balls pulled the side ahead.  

Ireland had set a 300-run target during Sunday’s thriller and later failed to defend the target after New Zealand finished 305 in 49.5 overs at Malahide. New Zealand’s successful chase of twenty runs off the final six balls has set a new record as well. Despite Harry Tector’s first ODI century, the results did not fall in their favor.