ANDREW ON SONG IN DUBAI

ANDREW BALBIRNIE’S rapid half century propelled Ireland to a convincing six-wicket win over Scotland with more than 15 overs to spare in their first ODI in Dubai.

Chasing 220 for victory, Ireland lost skipper William Porterfield second ball, but Balbirnie dominated a second wicket stand of 104 from just 95 balls with Paul Stirling.

It’s not too often that Stirling is out-scored, but he contributed just three of the first 50 added as the in-form Balbirnie tore the Scottish attack apart.

The Dubliner hit 10 fours and cleared the ropes once as he top scored with 67 from 55 balls — his fifth ODI half century — to put the his side firmly in control.

He was eventually stumped off the bowling of debutant Tom Sole — son of Scottish rugby legend David — and Stirling fell for 38 soon after.

There was to be little respite for the Scots however, as the experienced middle-order duo of Niall O’Brien and Ed Joyce took Ireland to the brink of victory with a fourth wicket partnership of 63 in just 65 balls.

Pace bowler Boyd Rankin was pleased with the winners’ performance.

‘Despite losing Porty early we got off to a flying start. The guys batted really well, keeping it ticking over and were able to coast to what was a pretty comfortable win in the end,’ he said.

The teams meet again at the same venue tomorrow.