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Jamie Grassi blasted an unbeaten 87 as Ireland U15 saw off the Netherlands with a comprehensive 10 wicket victory to make it two wins from two in the ICC Europe U15 Championships at Rugby School.
Full Final Scorecard

Opening batsman Grassi was in imperious form as he hit 12 fours and 1 six in his 81 balls innings, displaying an impressive array of shots to which the Netherlands bowlers had no answer.

Grassi was well supported by fellow opener Sam Murphy who finished not out on 32 on what was a belter of a batting track, as Ireland reached their target in just 21.1 overs.

Earlier Reece Kelly made an early breakthrough with the ball for Ireland, removing A Khan in the second over of the game, but Skeritt (23) and Walsh (13) combined well to add 45 for the second wicket.

But the introduction of the Ireland’s change bowlers put the squeeze on the Dutch, with Morgan Topping (2-21) and Harry Tector (2-21) picking up two a piece, while Varun Chopra was again impressive with the ball taking 1-28 off his 9 overs. There was also a wicket for Conor O’Gorman as the Netherlands finished on 140-9 off their 50 overs.

Number four Bas de Leede top scored for the Dutch with a watchful 58 from 92 balls.

Speaking after the win, man of the match Grassi was quick to praise his Ireland team-mates work ethic; “I thought we had a good attitude today, we looked to play aggressive cricket. We fielded well but could still improve” he told www.cricketireland.ie

On Ireland’s bowling, Grassi continued: “I think we could be a little tighter with the ball as we gave a few wides away, but we did well to bowl them out for 140 on that deck. I gave a couple of chances away, with a couple of loose shots – but I timed the ball really well today, and we put a lot of pressure on the fielders, ran well and with that wicket, I was confident of playing my shots.

“It was good to bat with Sam as well, as we’ve built up a good partnership over the years.”

Ireland captain, Conor O’Gorman, echoed Grassi’s thoughts on the team ethic amongst the whole squad: “We’ve gelled well and performed really well so far, especially the people who’ve had a chance. I’m personally learning each game about tactical decisions, game awareness and the players’ needs.

“We’d obviously like to win the tournament by continuing to play the positive brand of cricket we’ve learned how to play. I think both Reece (Kelly) and Josh (Little) have gelled well, as have Jamie and Sam and we have five quality spinners so we are a well balanced side. We need to stay aware as there are good cricketers in the tournament, we must not be complacent now and keep doing what we’re doing.”

In today’s other match in the competition, Guernsey recorded a surprise 73 run win over Scotland.

Ireland’s attention now switches to their clash with Jersey on Thursday at the same venue. Play starts at 11am.

Full Final Scorecard

ICC Europe U15 Championships Table:

Match winners – Grassi (87*) and Murphy (32*) leave the field
No
Connaught