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Paul Stirling Makes History As First Irish Cricketer To Reach 10,000 International Runs

Paul Stirling made history by becoming the first-ever cricketer from Ireland to reach 10,000 runs in international cricket.

Paul Stirling Makes History with 10,000 International Runs

His achievement came during the first ODI against the West Indies, where he needed just 37 runs to hit the landmark. Stirling, with his attacking style, scored a crucial 54 off 64 balls, leading Ireland to a solid start after they were put in to bat.

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At 34 years old, Stirling is a dominant figure in Irish cricket, with a remarkable lead over the second-highest run-scorer, Andy Balbirnie, who has accumulated around 6,000 fewer runs. Stirling is also edging closer to 6,000 runs in ODIs, sitting at 5,979 runs. With a couple of matches still to play, he’ll be looking to surpass that milestone soon.

List of players with the most runs for Ireland in international cricket:

  • 10,017 runs – Paul Stirling, in 324 innings (2008-2025)

  • 6,129 runs – Andy Balbirnie, in 235 innings (2010-2025)

  • 5,850 runs – Kevin O’Brien, in 250 innings (2006-2021)

  • 5,480 runs – William Porterfield, in 210 innings (2006-2022)

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Ireland’s Bowlers Shine as West Indies Fail to Chase Down 304

Talking about the match, Ireland defeated West Indies by 124 runs in the first ODI of their three-match series on May 21 at The Village in Dublin.

Batting first, Ireland posted a strong total of 303/6 in 50 overs. West Indies were then bowled out for just 179 in 34.1 overs, with Barry McCarthy taking 4 wickets for 32 runs.

This was Ireland’s third straight win over the West Indies, making it their fourth overall in ODIs. West Indies struggled early, losing Evin Lewis to a runout and falling to 29/4 after Barry McCarthy’s wickets. Thomas Mayes also took a wicket, leaving them at 31/5.

Despite contributions from Justin Greaves (35), Roston Chase (55), and Matthew Forde (38), the West Indies couldn’t chase the target. Barry McCarthy and George Dockrell (3/21) were Ireland’s key bowlers.

Earlier, Andrew Balbirnie scored a brilliant 112 off 138 balls, while Paul Stirling (54) and Harry Tector (56) also played vital roles. Balbirnie was named Player of the Match. West Indies will aim to bounce back in the second ODI on May 23.

ALSO READ: England Lions Squad Announced For India A Games: Chris Woakes And Rocky Flintoff Included

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