Ireland Head coach Ryan Eagleson was justifiably proud after his young side went toe to toe with competition favourites India.
Despite being a late call up to the tournament the Irish gave India a real fright – reducing them to 55 for 4 after 17 overs, before a fight-back saw India post 268 for 9, with Rory Anders and Josh Little picking up three wickets apiece.
“It was a solid performance from the boys today playing against the tournament favourites India,” said Eagleson.
“We put in a great showing with the ball getting four early wickets reducing India at one stage to a remarkable 55 for 4,” added the former Irish international.
“I thought our fielding effort was exceptional throughout the entire Indian innings with some super catches and Adam Dennison getting a direct hit run out.”
Chasing 269, Ireland lost both openers to run outs, and when Adam Dennison and Gary McClintock fell cheaply, Ireland were struggling on 39 for 4.
However a century stand between Lorcan Tucker and William McClintock brought Ireland back into the game before a late collapse as the run-rate climbed saw them falter to a 79 run loss.
“We got off to a difficult start in the batting, but I thought Lorcan Tucker and William McClintock fought back well with an outstanding century partnership in the middle overs with both scoring half centuries.
“We can be very proud of our play today and it gives us great heart going into the next game against Nepal on Saturday.”
Nepal will be tough opposition for Ireland – they provided the first shock of the competition beating New Zealand by 32 runs.
You can follow Ireland’s U19 ICC Cricket World Cup campaign on www.cricketireland.ie and by following Cricket Ireland on Twitter @Irelandcricket, Facebook & Instagram.
Ireland coach Ryan Eagleson
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