CRICKET: Ireland under-23s got their European Championship hopes off to a good start in Rathmines yesterday with a comfortable five-wicket win over The Netherlands, reports James Fitzgerald.

Railway Union's Kenny Carroll continued his run of recent good form with an unbeaten 64 as Ireland chased a modest Dutch total of 201 with five wickets and nearly 13 overs to spare. A run-a-ball half-century from Gary Wilson and 25 from Carroll's club-mate Kevin O'Brien ensured victory for the home team.

Today Ireland take on Denmark at Castle Avenue and then face holders Scotland at Milverton on Thursday. Play starts at 11am.

Meanwhile, Ireland also won their first match in the under-17 European Championships in Deventer yesterday, beating Denmark.