By Zainab Shafiq 
Ireland defeat West Indies in the 1st ODI of their 2025 series at Castle Avenue, Dublin, delivering a commanding performance that set the tone for the series. Led by Andy Balbirnie’s outstanding century, Ireland posted a formidable 303/6 before bundling out the visitors for just 179 in 34.1 overs.
Balbirnie, named Player of the Match, anchored Ireland’s innings with a composed 112 off 138 balls, laced with nine fours and four sixes. Opening alongside skipper Paul Stirling (54 off 64), the duo laid a solid foundation with a 109-run stand. Contributions from Harry Tector (56 off 51) and a late surge from the middle order pushed Ireland beyond the 300-mark.
West Indies’ bowlers struggled to maintain control, with only Alzarri Joseph (2/51) and Matthew Forde (3/68) making notable breakthroughs. The Caribbean side’s fielding efforts did little to stem the Irish momentum, conceding 23 extras in total.
In reply, West Indies never recovered from a nightmarish start, losing five wickets within the first 10 overs for just 35 runs. Barry McCarthy wreaked havoc with the new ball, grabbing 4/32 in a fiery spell. George Dockrell (3/21) and Thomas Mayes (1/23) further dismantled the visitors’ middle order.
Roston Chase (55) and Matthew Forde (38) offered a brief resistance with a 98-run stand, but it was far from enough. Once that partnership was broken, the collapse resumed swiftly, and the innings folded for 179.
Ireland Defeat West Indies With Bat and Ball in One-Sided Contest
The result gives Ireland a 1–0 lead in the ODI series and a major confidence boost heading into the next game. With strong all-round performances and disciplined bowling, this win solidifies Ireland’s growing stature in white-ball cricket.
For West Indies, the loss raises serious concerns about top-order stability and bowling discipline. They’ll need to regroup quickly to stay alive in the series.
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