Bray century gives Irish fighting chance

KINGSTON, Jamaica, Mar 15 (Reuters) Australian-born opening batsman Jeremy Bray struck an unbeaten 115 as Ireland racked up a total of 221 for nine against Zimbabwe in their World Cup Group D match today.

Bray's controlled strokeplay was the anchor to the entire Irish innings at Sabina Park and gives Trent Johnston's side a fighting chance of victory in their first ever World Cup match.

Ireland's debut got off to a shaky start with William Porterfield out with the sixth ball of the day - Vusi Sibanda snapping up the ball at second slip after keeper Brendan Taylor had fumbled an edge on Christopher Mpofu's delivery But Bray and fellow left-hander Eoin Morgan took on the Zimbabwe attack rattling up 42 from eight overs with some aggressive stroke play.

The Irish began to lose their way though when medium pacer Gary Brent was introduced and with the fifth ball of his first over he claimed the wicket of Dubliner Morgan caught by Elton Chigumbura at slip for 21.

Niall O'Brien and Andre Botha both fell victim to the lively Chigumbura and when Kevin O'Brien was caught behind, flashing outside off stump to Ed Rainsford, Ireland were struggling at 89 for five.

Andy White joined Bray at the crease and brought some much needed solidity to the innings, supporting the former New South Wales batsman in a partnership of 56 before he was caught lbw to Brent as he tried to hit across the line.

Despite a 25 minute break for rain, skipper Johnston helped keep the run rate ticking over before he run out for 20 after a mix-up with Bray.

Bray brought up his century in a 129 balls and with the help of some sloppy fielding from Zimbabwe in the final stages the Irish reached a total that gives them the opportunity to pull of the first shock of the competition.

West Indies and Pakistan are the other teams in the group.

REUTERS DH PM0019