Stirling proves his value

Opener's assault sets up series-levelling success for Ireland

Last updated: 8th September 2010  

Stirling proves his value

Stirling: maiden ODI ton

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Paul Stirling hammered 177 as Ireland claimed a share of their one-day series against Canada with a 92-run success in the second match.

Opening batsman Stirling struck 21 fours and five sixes during a 134-ball contribution, providing the cornerstone of Ireland's total of 325-8 after they had been sent in by their hosts at the Toronto Cricket, Skating and Curling Club.

He shared half-century stands with Andre Botha (28), Andrew Poynter (30) and Nigel Jones (25) for the first three wickets respectively, laying the foundation of Ireland's biggest ever score in one-day internationals.

Stirling, who was finally dismissed by Harvir Singh Baidwan (3-60) in the 45th over, also inked his name into the record books by surpassing the previous highest effort by an Irishman in the format, Kevin O'Brien's 142.

In reply, off-spinner Albert van der Merwe claimed career-best figures of 5-49 to ruin Canada's hopes.

Only Ruvinda Gunasekera (59) and Ashish Bagai (44) made much impression, the third-wicket pair adding 79 before Van der Merwe removed both.

Canada were eventually all out for 233 in 46.3 overs.

World Cup 2011 Winner Win Outright: Ireland 500/1