Ireland have not been able to establish as one of the top cricketing nations. There are often stories of records created against the Irish. Most recently, they gave Hardik Pandya-led side a scare when they almost chased down a gigantic total in T20I. However, there is one instance in Ireland cricket history when they absolutely demolished a full-member side. It was the might West Indians who were on the receiving end of this wrath as they paid the price for underestimating their opponent.
After a tense draw against England at Lord's, West Indian players did not have much time to rest as they had to travel to Belfast for the Ireland game.
No Sobers
While there were no overcast conditions on the morning of the game, the overnight rain meant that the ground was soaking wet. The uncovered pitch was green and the conditions were favourable for the new-ball bowlers. In the absence of legendary Garry Sobers who was nursing an injury, Basil Butcher led the Caribbean side and decided to bat first irrespective of the conditions.
Tough conditions
The conditions were not ideal for cricket. The wicket was soft, outfield wet. But, it was not an international game. Hence, Butcher thought it would mean good practice for the batters. While players were reluctant to go out and play in the unfavourable conditions, they did not want to disappoint approximately 2,000 spectators who had gathered to watch the West Indies players.
For the game, five of the players who were part of the side at Lord's were rested. Also, they included legendary Clyde Walcott, who was with the team as their manager.
The nightmare
Joey Carew and Steve Camacho walked out to bat. Both openers got out after playing irresponsible shots. The pitch was so wet that mud splattered on the kit. Skipper Butcher was hit on the arm. While the ball was moving around, Maurice Foster got run out. Butcher did not stay long at the crease either and got caught at gully. All of a sudden, West Indies found themselves four down for just six runs.
Instead of taking the cautious approach, West Indies batters tried to counter-attack and paid the price for it. Clive Lloyd played a loose drive to lose his wicket. Walcott was frustrated by the fall of wickets on the other end. He got out after scoring six runs. John Shepherd and wicketkeeper-batter Mike Findlay bagged ducks.
Only Grayson Shillingford stayed long enough at the crease. Shillingford remained unbeaten on 9 as West Indies got bundled out for 25 in 25.3 overs. Ireland used only two bowlers. Douglas Goodwin bagged a five-wicket haul whereas Alec O'Riordan got four wickets.
Easy win for Ireland
Ireland ended up winning the match on the basis of better first innings score. The hosts scored 125/8 before declaring their innings. Irish opener David Pigot top-scored with 37.
