New Zealand break last over record to edge Ireland

Michael Bracewell broke a record 24 in the final to claim a one-wicket win for New Zealand against Ireland in the ODI opener at Malahide.

Bracewell broke three fours and two sixes to win it with one ball to spare.

Harry Tector made 113 in the Irish 300-9 and the tourists struggled ahead of the late Bracewell fireworks display.

It was another heartbreaking defeat for Ireland at the Co Dublin site after lose to India by four points in their second T20 game last month.

New Zealand captain Tom Latham won the coin toss and his decision to go first in the Super League World Cup tie looked good after the early dismissals of fly-half Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie.

Tector tone raises Ireland

Tector again showed his immense promise with a superb round as he laid the foundations for a healthy Irish total.

A 64-run partnership with Andy McBrine (39) was followed by a 94-run stand alongside Campher (46).

Simi Singh’s quick 30 made Ireland 300-9 with Lockie Ferguson, Blair Tickner and Ish Sodhi each claiming two wickets.

New Zealand also had a hesitant start to the set with Will Young and Finn Allen sent off to leave them 19-2.

Martin Guptill (50) and Latham (23) stabilized the Black Caps before Glenn Phillips added 38.

However, the Irish attack kept the lead with Campher taking three wickets and they looked set for a maiden victory against world number one New Zealand with the score at 218-7 and under 10. remaining overs.

But they were unable to keep Bracewell in check as he struggled to keep visitors on the hunt.

Mark Adair took a wicket and conceded just four runs from penultimate to leave New Zealand 281-9 with six balls remaining, before Bracewell’s late onslaught.

The teams will meet in Malahide on Tuesday in the second ODI with the final game three days later.