PJ Moor, James McCollum take up ODI template on Day 3 in Ireland's ten-wicket win over Essex

Opening pair PJ Moor and James McCollum put on Ireland’s highest first-wicket partnership in first-class cricket as the visiting side ran out 10-wicket winners over Essex at The Cloud County Ground today.

After being set a generous target of 232 from 50 overs, Ireland openers James McCollum (100*) and PJ Moor (118*) put on their record stand on the final afternoon of the three-day match. The pair gave few chances and dealt well with a pitch that displayed occasional unexpected bounce. Moor, particularly, looked assured – bringing up his century with a stunning cover drive.

McCollum played a more circumspect role, comfortable in defence but several times putting his body on the line. He made an expectant crowd wait as he slowly made his way into the nineties, however with the winning target closing in, threatening to leave McCollum just short of his milestone, the Waringstown man struck a half-volley cleanly over the long off boundary to bring up both his century and Ireland’s victory.

 Earlier in the day, Essex began the day on 59-2, still 17 runs in deficit. Graham Hume removed first innings centurion Robin Das for 32 early, and Tom Mayes picked up his international squad mates Curtis Campher (20) and George Dockrell (26) to leave Essex precariously on 113-5.

But Mark Adair, playing for Essex, had other ideas. The Northern Knights captain launched an assault on the Irish bowlers, smashing 85 from 66 balls, including 11 fours and three sixes. His six off Fionn Hand to bring up his fifty saw him swivel on his back foot and play a sweetly timed pick-up shot that sailed far over the square leg boundary.

Adair shared in a 124-run stand with Will Buttleman (65) that came off just 111 balls as Essex surged towards a 200-run lead. After both batters were dismissed, the home side made their declaration at 307-8, setting up the run-chase that Ireland duly completed.

 The Lord’s Test begins on 1 June at 11 am.