Guptill puts Kiwis in command against Ireland

Martin Guptill’s century helped New Zealand post a mammoth 311 for the loss of six wickets against Ireland in the first of two warm-up games for both sides prior to the World Cup, which starts on February 19.

Put into bat by Ireland at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground in Nagpur, the Kiwis recovered from the loss of an early wicket as opener Guptill led the charge with his 130, sharing in key partnerships with Jesse Ryder (48), Ross Taylor (33) and James Franklin (49).

New Zealand were forced into a measured start when they lost Brendon McCullum for just one in the third over but Guptill and Ryder put together a steady 79.

Ryder was looking to break free once the partnership had crossed the fifty mark but just two short of his own half-century, he fell to a catch by Ireland skipper William Porterfield off the bowling of Paul Stirling.

Guptill maintained his nerve to reach his half-century, while new man Ross Taylor chipped in well in a 47-run third-wicket partnership.

Taylor’s gritty 33 off 38 balls included two huge sixes but ended in the 30th over when he was caught and bowled by Andre Botha.

Guptill reached three figures in 120 deliveries and finished with 12 fours and three sixes to his name.

Franklin ably supported in a 104-run stand before his dismissal by Kevin O’Brien, while Guptill fell soon after to Trent Johnston.