06 February 2016 | Matt Somerford
Ireland began their preparations for next month’s World T20 with a five-wicket win over Papua New Guinea in Townsville.
Surrey wicketkeeper-batsman Gary Wilson’s 45 was the match-winning innings in a low-scoring contest after Papua New Guinea managed 92 for nine.
Ireland’s bowlers shared the wickets around with Kevin O’Brien’s 2-10 from four overs the pick of the figures.
Stuart Thompson excited by the upcoming T20 schedule – see what he told Cricket Ireland TV https://t.co/KNLunCBxia pic.twitter.com/qiZ7J1vYDx
— Cricket Ireland (@Irelandcricket) February 6, 2016
Ireland lost early wickets in their chase, slipping to 30 for three, but Wilson struck six boundaries in his 33-ball 45 to break the back of the pursuit before victory was secured with 7.5 overs in hand.
Ireland will meet Papua New Guinea in two more Twenty20s in the north Queensland city before a three-match series in United Arab Emirates later this month.
Ireland’s opening match of the World T20 is against Oman in Dharamsala on March 9.
Source: ECB