Ireland remain in control despite late rally from Netherlands

Ireland remain in control of their ICC InterContinental Cup clash despite a late rally by The Netherlands in the final hour of the second day in Deventer.

Having dismissed The Netherlands for 148, Ireland opted not to enforce the follow-on despite having a significant 184 run advantage. With the pitch already offering significant assistance to the spinners, Ireland didn't relish the prospect of batting last on the final day.

After the early loss of Andrew Balbirnie for just a single, James Shannon (31) and first innings centurion John Anderson (18) took Ireland steadily onto 52 for 1, before three wickets fell in quick succession just before the close.

Anderson fell lbw, attempting to sweep Pieter Seelaar, and the same bowler accounted for Irish skipper Kevin O'Brien (4), a turning ball catching the edge through to keeper Wesley Barresi.

In between Shannon had struck a Daniel Doram full toss straight to Gruijters at extra cover as the Dutch mounted a fightback.

Andrew White (6*) and Stuart Poynter (4*) ensured there were no futher success for the home side, as Ireland finished on 68 for 4, an overall lead of 252.

Earlier in the day Tom Cooper had been the sole Dutch batsman to offer any resistance. Cooper top scored with 51 from 128 balls, before being last man out - brilliantly stumped by Stuart Poynter - to give George Dockrell his third wicket.

John Mooney (2-5) had dismissed both openers, while Max Sorensen (2-33) accounted for tail-enders Gunning and Braat. Trent Johnston and Andrew Balbirnie both had figures of 1 for 20, while Stuart Thompson (1-23) was the other Irish wicket taker.

Ireland are guaranteed at least six points from the fixture by virtue of having the first innings lead and will be hoping to collect the extra 14 points which would secure a final berth in Dubai in December over the next two days.