Steady Ireland outscore PNG

Ireland gained its first points of the ICC under-19 Cricket World Cup 2004 with a 70-run victory against Papua New Guinea at the Khulna Divisional Stadium.

Having run West Indies to the wire and performed creditably against Pakistan, Ireland went into this match as favourites. After being put into bat by PNG they made steady progress, scoring at around four-an-over from the start.

Seven batsmen made double-figures but none could go on to make a telling contribution and Ireland were all out for 212 in 49 overs. Andrew Riddles top scored with 37 while opener Gary Wilson made 36.

PNG's main wicket takers were Vali Vali (4 for 40) and Lahui Davai (3 for 24).

Having batted for 87 minutes for his vital 37 runs, Riddles returned to open the bowling for Ireland. Riddles' bowling contribution was equally significant as he dismissed two of PNG's top three batsmen in a five-over burst that cost only eight runs.

Slow left armer Gary Kidd then took charge as Ireland mopped up the PNG lower order for 142 in 38.2 overs. Kidd finished with figures of 3 for 36 and Riddles was named man of the match.

Both Ireland and PNG will now compete in the Plate Championship in Chittagong while Pakistan and West Indies, who face each other tomorrow, are already through to the Super League.