Rampant Ireland Crush Nepal To Move Three Points Clear

Irelands seamers dismantled Nepal for just 53 - the second lowest total in T20 internationals - as they recorded a comprehensive eight wickets win at Stormont to continue their unbeaten start in Group A of the T20 World Cup qualifiers.

In ideal conditions for bowling, William Porterfield won the toss and inserted the Nepalese, who in truth never looked at ease at a typically overcast Stormont.

Kevin O'Brien (3-8) and Stuart Thompson (3-10) both returned their best figures in T20 internationals as Nepal failed to negate the lateral movement of a rampant Irish attack.

John Mooney (2-7) continued his impressive form, while Alex Cusack and Craig Young - who removed the Nepalese dangerman Paras Khadka (10) - also revelled in the seam friendly environment.

Sagar Pun (20) ploughed a very lonely furrow for Nepal - he hit three of his side's four boundaries, as Ireland moved into top gear after a slowish but successful start to the tournament.

Chasing the modest target, the Irish lost Niall O'Brien early, but Paul Stirling hit 29 from 21 balls (4 fours, 1 six) before being bowled with the scores level.

Kevin O'Brien pipped Eglinton all-rounder Stuart Thompson to the Man of the Match award, with John Mooney taking third slot.

An Irish win with 12 overs to spare provides a further boost to their run rate, and sees them top Group A on 6 points ahead of Papua New Guinea, Nepal and Namibia who all have three points.

The Irish are back in action on Wednesday when they play PNG at Stormont (10am) - tickets available on the gate.

T20 WORLD CUP QUALIFIER

At Stormont, Ireland beat Nepal by 8 wickets

Nepal 53 all out (14.3 overs, S Pun 20, K O'Brien 3-8, S Thompson 3-10, J Mooney 2-7)

Ireland 54-2 (8.0 overs, P Stirling 29, W Porterfield 18*, S Kami 2-28)

Kevin O'Brien named Man of the Match