5 things that show that Ireland belong to Test cricket

#4. The partnerships

O'Brien and Thompson added a fine partnership of 114

Ireland did not have many brilliant partnerships throughout the Test match but during the second innings, they had some pretty decent partnerships which were crucial for the team during the respective phases of the innings.

Trailing by 180 runs, the Irish needed a good start to the second innings and they got off to a good start thanks to the temperamental batting by openers William Porterfield and Ed Joyce.

The pair batted with calm and poise as they faced the Pakistan bowling attack. The duo added 69 runs for the first wicket before Joyce was dismissed for 32.

After the fall of the first wicket, the Irish began to lose wickets at quick intervals and were 157/6. At this stage, Kevin O'Brien and Stuart Thompson added 114 runs for the second wicket to keep Ireland in a decent position.

Provided the Irish produce similar partnerships in further Tests, their future in the format is bright.