Cricket:Andrew White struck an unbeaten 97 today to help defending champions Ireland post 340 for six against Zimbabwe on the opening day of their Intercontinental Cup encounter at Harare Sports Club.
Kevin O’Brien also contributed a fine 71 and captain William Porterfield hit 51 at the top of the order, while Gary Wilson fell three runs short of his half-century.
Shingirai Masakadza and teenager Natsai Mushangwe took two wickets apiece for the hosts — who fielded only two first-choice players — after the tourists won the toss and opted to bat.
Ireland, looking to make it three straight wins in the competition, looked to be on the ropes when they slipped to 72 for three in the 14th over following the dismissals of Paul Stirling (19), Niall O’Brien (17) and Andre Botha (seven).
However, an 85-run fourth-wicket stand between Porterfield and Kevin O’Brien got them back on track. Both then fell in quick succession, bringing White and Wilson together in the middle.
The pair put on 96 before the latter departed, leaving White three runs short of his hundred alongside John Mooney (25 not out) at stumps.