IRELAND v PAKISTAN KING KEV

O’brien’s century heroics give Irish hope on Test bow

KEVIN O’BRIEN is hoping his latest international ton will lead to an Ireland victory - just as his century against England did at the World Cup seven years ago.

The 34-year-old became the first man from his country to post a three-figure Test score as Ireland, forced to follow-on by Pakistan on Sunday, accumulated a 139-run lead by reaching stumps on the penultimate day in Malahide at 319 for seven.

The home side had been fighting to prevent a heavy defeat in their maiden Test when, still 85 behind, O’brien came out to bat at six.

But his 118 not out, coupled with Stuart Thompson’s useful 53, has now raised hopes of an unlikely draw – or even a victory.

O’brien performed similar heroics in Bangalore in 2011 when Ireland found themselves 111 for five in response to England’s 327.

His 50-ball ton that day, still the fastest in World Cup history, guided Ireland to a famous victory and O’brien is hoping his latest century can inspire another. He said: “It’s a very proud and emotional moment.

“To get there, it’s a great honour. Hopefully now we’ve put ourselves in a good position to try and go ahead and win it.

“I still think for me (the century in) Bangalore is definitely number one, just for the sheer moment it was and against who it was, in the World Cup.

“If I can continue on tomorrow for another hour and a half, that 118 changes to 170-odd, this could top it.”

With O’brien one shy, Pakistan brought on Mohammad Amir, who had already accounted for Irish captain William Porterfield, O’brien’s brother Niall and Gary Wilson to reach 100 Test wickets.

“They sniffed an opportunity to try and get me out on 99 and fortunately another thick edge went past the fielder and I got two runs.

“It was just relief, really. Emotional - first Test and all that. Just a great honour to join a fairly small list of players that have done it.

“My mum and dad don’t miss a game and my wife was there as well, and obviously Niall’s in the side. I’m very proud.”

KNOCKING ON KEVIN’S DOOR O’brien was in great touch (inset) as he made history yesterday