Ireland are once again the focus of the ICC’s World Cup Countdown, with the famous St. Patrick’s Day win over Pakistan in 2007 being used to mark 17 days to the start of the tournament.
The countdown has been running since there were 100 days to go until the World Cup, and includes a different moment from World Cup history each day. As part of the countdown, the public can vote for their favourite moments on the ICC website or using a hashtag on twitter.
Currently Kevin O’Brien’s record breaking century against England in 2011 is in second place on the countdown, with Ireland’s other appearance, the 2007 tie with Zimbabwe, not currently in the top ten.
Ireland’s victory over Pakistan on St. Patrick’s Day followed on from that tie with Zimbabwe, and secured a place in the Super 8 phase of the tournament. It was a game that shocked the world as few people had expected Ireland to even compete with Pakistan, let alone knock them out of the tournament.
After winning the toss and bowling Pakistan out for just 132, Ireland found themselves 15-2 in reply as conditions favoured the Pakistan bowlers.
Niall O’Brien produced a superb innings, batting either side of a rain break to push Ireland towards victory, before Ireland lost three wickets for just five runs to re-open the door for Pakistan.
The Irish held strong though, and Kevin O’Brien, supported by Trent Johnston, finished off the match to ensure Ireland won by 3 wickets, and with plenty of time to spare.
It was a day that caused the world to take notice not just of the team on the field, but the fans in the stands as the Blarney Army of Ireland fans showed even the West Indian fans how to really party at a cricket match.
You can vote for Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day victory over Pakistan as one of your favourite moments by visiting the ICC World Cup Countdown page, or by using the hashtag #blarneyarmy on twitter.
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