Ireland’s cup fairytale ends

IRELAND skipper William Porterfield was left with mixed feelings after his side’s exit from the World Cup was confirmed with a 131-run defeat to South Africa yesterday.

The Irish, who produced the tournament’s first upset — a three-wicket win over England — nearly two weeks ago, saw a below-par batting performance undo what was an otherwise respectable performance with the ball at Eden Gardens.

Chasing 272, Ireland were all out for 141 as Morne Morkel and Robin Peterson grabbed three wickets each, while Jacques Kallis took two to condemn Ireland to defeat in the 34th over.