New Zealand take charge of first test against Ireland

Ravindra and Blundell compiled centuries at Stormont

Ireland’s Mark Adair and Harry Tector appeal for a wicket during the Failte Solar International Test Match against New Zealand at Stormont. Picture: Nick Elliott/Inpho

Ireland face an uphill battle in their first home Test for nearly two years after Rachin Ravindra and Tom Blundell compiled centuries to put New Zealand in the driving seat on day one.

The Black Caps’ fought back strongly after a blistering start from Ireland on day one of the Test match at Stormont, closing in control after a dramatic opening day in Belfast.

Ireland could hardly have asked for a better beginning after winning the toss and bowling as Mark Adair struck with the second ball of the innings when Tom Latham shouldered arms to one that jagged back off the seam and crashed into off stump, sending the home crowd into celebration.

The hosts maintained relentless pressure during the opening session and soon produced one of the moments of the day in the field. Devon Conway looked set before a stunning diving catch at mid-wicket by Liam McCarthy removed the left-hander and gave Ireland another breakthrough.

Debutant Liam McCarthy then enjoyed another moment he will never forget when he claimed the prized wicket of Kane Williamson for his maiden Test scalp. The young seamer trapped the New Zealand star lbw after another disciplined spell from Ireland’s attack.

At 104-4, the tourists were in a bit of trouble, but the momentum shifted after lunch. Daryl Mitchell briefly counterattacked before Adair struck again, enticing him into advancing down the wicket and finding the edge behind.

New Zealand’s Tom Blundel celebrates after scoring a century. Picture: Nick Elliott/Inpho

From there, Rachin Ravindra and Tom Blundell transformed the innings with a composed and increasingly dominant partnership. Ravindra reached an impressive half-century from 87 balls in style, pulling a short delivery high over the boundary for six. As the pitch eased, the pair pushed on, bringing up a superb 100-run stand before stretching it beyond 150 to frustrate Ireland’s tiring bowlers.

Ireland finally found the breakthrough as Ravindra’s excellent innings came to an end when he was caught by Mayes off the bowling of Tector, giving the hosts a much-needed lift late in the day. Blundell then continued to dominate finishing on 142 not out.

Despite Ireland’s brilliant opening burst, New Zealand’s recovery ensured the tourists ended day one in the stronger position heading into the second morning.

It is the first time Ireland and New Zealand have met in a Test, which is scheduled to last four days.