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John Anderson scored his maiden international century to put Ireland on top after an action packed first day of their ICC InterContinental Cup clash against The Netherlands in Deventer.
The 30 year-old Merrion opener showed the perfect technique and temperament for the longer format of the game as he top scored with 127 from 310 deliveries, which included six fours and one six. Anderson survived a scare when he was dropped at slip on 97, but reached the century landmark from his next ball, turning Pieter Seelaar for two.

Ireland finished the day on 332 all out with The Netherlands bowling an incredible 114.5 overs in the day – nearly an extra 19 thanks to their preponderance of spinners.

John Mooney was bowled by Pieter Seelaar from the final delivery of the day’s play, but not before he had scored his first half century for Ireland since his match winning 86 in July 2011. That came against Namibia in the first WCL match at Stormont. His 63 came from 123 balls and included 3 fours and 2 sixes.

Earlier skipper Kevin O’Brien impressed with a typically fluent 48 from just 63 balls (3 fours, 1 six), as he shared a fourth wicket partnership of 89 with Anderson.

O’Brien’s innings was ended by 15 year-old spinning prodigy Daniel Doram. The left-armer had earlier trapped James Shannon lbw for 20.

Once Anderson’s long vigil had been ended by Leslie Stokkers, Doram (5-82) then tore through the Irish lower order, dismissing Stuart Thompson (5), Trent Johnston (7), and George Dockrell (0) in quick succession to have a five wicket haul on his InterContinental Cup debut.

With the pitch showing signs of considerable turn already, Ireland will be pleased to have the runs on the board, and their own left-arm spinner George Dockrell in their bowling armoury.

The scorecard in full can be found here.

Cricket Ireland
John Anderson made his first century for Ireland © INPHO/Presseye/Rowland White
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