Ireland and Canada progress to Plate semi-finals
A half-century from Paul Stirling led Ireland Under-19 to a seven-wicket victory against Zimbabwe Under-19 in Napier
Cricinfo staff
23-Jan-2010
An aggressive half-century from Paul Stirling led Ireland Under-19 to a seven-wicket victory against Zimbabwe Under-19 in Napier, and secured their place in the semi-finals of the Plate Championship. Rain curtailed the contest to 27 overs a side at Nelson Park and Ireland chose to field after winning the toss. New-ball bowler Craig Young led a strong performance, taking 4 for 14, as Zimbabwe were dismissed for 102 with four balls left in the innings. Shane Getkate and George Dockrell took two wickets each, while Peter Moor's 28 was Zimbabwe's top score. Ireland lost an early wicket in their chase but Stirling's 65 off 50 balls, which included seven fours and a six, sealed the result for them. Andrew Balbirnie contributed an unbeaten 20 as Ireland got home in the 21st over.
Canada Under-19 qualified for the semi-finals of the Plate Championship after their quarter-final against USA Under-19 was washed out in Napier. Only three overs were possible at McLean Park and USA scored 13 before the game was abandoned. Canada progressed because of their better position in the group stage.
