West Indies set ODI run-chase record

West Indies set ODI run-chase record
Simon Cooper / PA via Associated Press, File

A maiden century by Vincentian Sunil Ambris helped West Indies to their highest successful run chase to make 331 for 5 to beat Ireland by five wickets in the ongoing One-Day International (ODI) Tri-Nation Series in Ireland.

The opener smashed 148 at Malahide Cricket Ground as the regional team surpassed Ireland’s 326 for 5 with 13 balls to spare.

Ireland’s Andy Balbirine struck 135 to give his team hope of a first win in the tournament but they slumped to a second loss to the Windies in a week.

The victory secures a place for the West Indies in this Friday’s final.

Ireland won the toss and decided to bat first which looked to have paid off as they set a formidable target and just four runs short of their ODI record total.

The in-form Balbimie put on a 146-run partnership for the second wicket with opener Paul Stirling (77).

Ambris put on a first-wicket stand of 84 with Shai Hope (30), who along with John Campbell made a record opening stand against Ireland last Sunday.

Paceman Boyd Rankin (3-65) was the best of the Irish bowlers.

Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel took 2 for 62.