The tournament's hosts took on one of the more notable underdogs of international cricket, as the West Indies faced Ireland in the second game of the ICC World Twenty20 2010. Unfortunately, Ireland didn't live up to their reputation, folding for 68 all out and being unable to capitalize on a tidy and tight bowling performance, and some key West Indian players being rested.
With captain and key weapon Chris Gayle stepping aside for the night, the West Indies had the potential of slipping - the memories of their losses to Zimbabwe a few months ago can't be too far. And with the scorecard reading 93/6, Ireland were definitely in control by the 15th over. None of the home team's batsmen had been able to get going, with the highest score at that point being Ramnaresh Sarwan's 24. Seventeen-year old slow left arm orthodox George Dockrell did most of the damage, taking 3 for 16 from his four overs. But with the West Indies staring down the barrel, Darren Sammy blasted 30 off 17 deliveries to take his team to a competitive (in these Guyanese conditions) 138 for 9. Ireland conceded only 1 wide and 1 no-ball, and left the field feeling very satisfied with their bowling performance.
As it turned out, that was about as good as things got for them. Irish skipper William Porterfield nicked the first ball of the innings for four, but was caught by Sammy off Kemar Roach two balls later. From there, it was a procession of wickets as Ravi Rampaul (3-0-17-3) and Sammy (3.4-0-8-3) ensured Ireland were never in with a chance. Not satisfied with taking top-scoring in the batting innings, Sammy took three wickets and held four catches, a record in Twenty20 Internationals. Only Gary Wilson scored in double figures (17 off 34). While Ireland were frugal with their extras, the West Indies could afford to be generous, but the 11 wides will be a point for their bowling coach to look at.
As good as a win would have been for world cricket and the underdogs, it was important the West Indies got their campaign off to a winning start. Considering the empty stadiums and dead atmosphere during the 2007 World Cup, having the home team stick around this time ensures that the crowds will follow them (at least for their games). As for Ireland, they can feel satisfied with how they did with the ball, but their batting will obviously worry them - especially in this format, which allows the underdogs to level the playing field. With Ireland seriously pursuing Full Member status with the ICC, a score of 68 all out will not help their case.