ICC World Cup 2015: India vs Ireland - Player ratings

Ireland players celebrating after taking the wicket of Rohit Sharma

Ireland

Wil Porterfield – 8/10

The Irish captain was brilliant with the bat against a strong opposition today. He scored 67 impactful runs, and put on an 89 run partnership with Paul Stirling at the top of the order. Although the bulk of his runs came down the ground, he showed no difficulty in playing shots through the covers or off his pads. Had Porterfield hung around a little longer, the Indians would’ve had to chase a lot more than what they ended up chasing.

Paul Stirling – 7/10

Porterfield’s partner in crime, the meaty Stirling established his authority right from the start as he hit some great shots off the bowling of Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Shami. It took the guile of Ravi Ashwin to dismiss him on 42. On any other day, his start could’ve been converted into a fine half century.

Ed Joyce – 2/10

Ed Joyce was the man to watch out for at the start of this encounter. But he failed miserably, tried to play Suresh Raina too early and getting bowled in the process.

Niall O’Brien – 8/10

O’Brien’s love for India continued with a fine run-a-ball 75. He spent nearly 90 minutes on the pitch, and was one of the last batsmen to get out. He hit as many as 7 boundaries and 3 sixes in his 75.

Andy Balbirnie – 6/10

Balbirnie was looking good till he decided to play an unneeded sweep off the bowling of Ashwin. It was innings full of potential, and unfortunately, that’s all it was.

Kevin O’Brien – 1/10

Like Ed Joyce, there was a lot expected from the big hitting Kevin O’Brien. But it turned out to be a huge disappointment, as O’Brien knicked one to MS Dhoni and walked away after playing just two balls.

Gary Wilson – 2/10

Gary Wilson’s only contribution to his team’s efforts was in the form of some good saves behind the wicket. Barring that, he didn’t do anything of note.

Stuart Thompson – 6/10

While Thompson could have avoided attempting that run that got him out, he took the wickets of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, to compensate for the same.

John Mooney – 5/10

John Mooney played a critical part in beating England at Bangalore, 4 years ago and hence, a lot was expected out of the seasoned campaigner when India came calling. However, all Mooney could do was score 12* and give away runs at seven an over.

George Dockrell – 3/10

Bowled in bad areas and got hammered by the Indian batsmen. Especially the openers.

Alex Cusack – 5/10

Tried hanging around towards the end of the Irish innings, but to no avail. With the ball in hand, he was one of the better bowlers from his side.