Ireland skipper rues missed chances

Canberra, March 3 (IANS) Ireland skipper William Porterfield rued the missed chances and poor fielding as his side slumped to a 201-run defeat against South Africa in a World Cup Pool B game at the Manuka Oval here on Tuesday.

After dismissing opener Quinton de Kock (1) early, Ireland could not grip the advantage and the game drifted away. Hashim Amla (159) and Faf du Plessis (109) stitched a 247-run partnership.

While Ed Joyce dropped Amla with the batsman on 10, du Plessis also got a life at his personal score of 18. He edged a Paul Stirling delivery but Naill O'Brien didn't react in time at first slip.

South Africa succeeded in posting a huge total of 411 for four, which Ireland failed to chase down. They were bowled out for 210 runs in 45 overs and lost by 201 runs.

"They played well. We had an early breakthrough, we wanted more, but once the lads got in they were difficult to get out. You have got to take your chances,” Porterfield said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

The 30-year-old added that chasing such a huge total got more difficult as they lost early wickets. 

However, he said the team looked forward to their next game against Zimbabwe on March 7 in Hobart.

“Four down, coming out from 10 overs, it got difficult, they bowled very well. Every game is a big game. The one against Zimbabwe is a big one," said Porterfield.