Nathan Smith’s four-wicket haul has put Ireland Wolves in a dominant position after the first day of their three-day game with MCC Young Cricketers at Southgate.
Nathan Smith’s four-wicket haul has put Ireland Wolves in a dominant position after the first day of their three-day game with MCC Young Cricketers at Southgate. The Instonians and Northern Knights paceman – one of only two uncapped players in a strong Wolves side – did his chances of further recognition no harm with a metronomical spell of 4 for 14 in 11 overs.
Among his four victims were internationals George Dockrell and Matthew Cross – the current Scotland wicketkeeper-batsman.
Batting first when play eventually began at 3.10pm, here was no sign of the carnage to come as MCC reached 61 for 1, but once the Irish attack found their radar, MCC lost seven wickets for 37 to finish the day on 98 for 8.
Craig Young, Kevin O’Brien, Stuart Thompson and Peter Chase all picked up one wicket apiece, while only Ben Curran with 39 held back the rampant Irish bowling unit.
Wolves captain Andrew Balbirnie was delighted with how the bowlers exploited the assistance offered by both the overhead and pitch conditions.
“In very bowler friendly conditions it took us a few overs to get the length we needed to take the wickets, but once we got that right we bowled well,” said Balbirnie.
“Nathan Smith in particular had a beautiful spell. He had it on a string at one stage and was threatening the bat every ball. It’s very pleasing to see him doing so well following on from his good display against Scotland.
“Having lost a lot of play today it’s great to get ourselves in such a good position. It’s important that we make tomorrow count when we bat and we’re really looking forward to that challenge,” added Balbirnie.
Bowling hero Nathan Smith was understandably happy at both his own and team’s performance.
“I’m delighted with how the day has gone,” said Smith. “Obviously taking early wickets helped me settle down and get into my rhythm.
“I put the ball in the right areas and was prepared to be patient, getting my reward in the end so I’m happy with that.”
Play on the second day gets under way at 11am when the Irish will be hoping to wrap up the innings quickly before establishing a significant first innings lead.
Ireland Wolves v MCC Young Cricketers
At Southgate, Day 1 of 3
MCC YC 99-8 (42 overs; B Curran 39, N Smith 4-14)
Continues Thusday at 11am.
Ireland Wolves ©Inpho/Oisin Keniry
No
Connaught
