O’Brien’s century inspires Ireland

NIALL O’BRIEN announced himself on the international stage in majestic style yesterday as Ireland completed a record run chase at the Mardyke.

Set 295 in what proved to be 74 overs, Ireland reached their target with a comfortable 26 balls and five wickets to spare with the 20-year-old Railway Union wicket keeper scoring 111 in only his sixth appearance for his country.

His form this season could be Ireland’s loss however. This was his fourth century and on Monday he heads to Bristol where he has a week’s trial with Gloucestershire. If he reproduces anything like this the county will want to see much more.