Michael Bracewell, the left-handed batter, Single-handedly took New Zealand to a victory against Ireland in the 1st ODI of the series. New Zealand was 153/6 at the end of the 30 overs mark while chasing 301 runs against Ireland. However, Bracewell did not let the pressure guide proceedings as he took his time to get to his half-century and then unleashed the destructive approach that helped New Zealand secure a victory.
In the last over, Kiwis required 20 runs with Bracewell on the crease. The batter nonchalantly smoked three fours and two sixes in the first five balls to the last over to guide the Blackcaps to a comfortable victory. It was Bracewell’s maiden hundred in international cricket, and it came at the right moment for Kiwis.
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Before the action began, New Zealand had won the toss and opted to field first. Ireland took the opportunity of batting first with both hands. Harry Tector showed promise against India in T20is and was the star with the bat for the Irishmen. He scored 113 off 177. Tector received good support from the likes of Curtis Campher and Andy McBrine.
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In reply, New Zealand kept losing wickets at the regular interval to stay on the backfoot during the whole chase against Ireland. Martin Guptill scored 51 off 67, but all hopes were seemingly lost when the Kiwis were reduced to 153/6 in 30 overs. After that, it was all about the young Michael Bracewell, who played a blinder. He remained unbeaten on 127* off 82 while smashing 7 gigantic sixes and 10 glorious fours in his blazing knock.
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