New Zealand warmed up for next week’s opening Test against England by thrashing Ireland by an innings and 79 runs in Stormont.
Black Caps bowler Blair Tickner helped wrap up victory for the tourists on the third day by taking five for 76 as Ireland were bowled out for 232 having been forced to follow on.
Ireland resumed on 65 for two, trailing by 246 runs, and New Zealand continued to dominate after declaring on the second day after reaching 490 for eight.
Nathan Smith followed up his six-wicket haul from Ireland’s first innings by removing nightwatchman Tom Mayes for five early on, and when Tickner had Harry Tector caught by Tom Latham in the slips, the hosts were 75 for four.
Opener Stephen Doheny fell to Tickner for 57, leaving Ireland on 104 for five, and the writing was on the wall, with only wicketkeeper Lorcan Tucker (50) and Mark Adair (44 not out) putting up further resistance. Curtis Campher was forced to retire hurt after taking a blow to the hand.
Smith and Tickner’s performances will give New Zealand a seam selection headache ahead of next week’s first Test at Lord’s. Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke and Kyle Jamieson could all come into contention having travelled to London early to prepare for the three England Tests.
PA
