England crashed back to earth after their World Cup triumph as they were skittled for 85 on a humiliating opening morning of their four-day test against Ireland at Lord's on Wednesday. Joe Root won the toss and elected to bat under blue skies but the morning belonged to Ireland, and in particular Tim Murtagh who ripped through the England order to claim an astonishing five for 13 in nine overs. It is the first time England have been bowled out before lunch at Lord's.
Debutant Jason Roy looked nervous at the crease and his stay lasted just 11 balls. Joe Denly looked fluent during 28-ball 23 before becoming Mark Adair's first victim. Tim Murtagh then sent back Rory Burns, while Adair accounted for captain Joe Root. Johnny Bairstow, Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes were all dismissed for ducks by Murtagh as England were reduced to 42 for 7. Olly Stone (19) and Sam Curran (18) helped some runs as they were all out for 85 in 23.4 overs. Apart from Murtagh's five-fer, Adair got three wickets while Boyd Rankin got two.
ENGLAND VS IRELAND: LIVE SCORECARD
England win the toss
Earlier, Joe Root won the toss and elected to bat first. Jason Roy made his Test debut at the top of the order and fast bowler Olly Stone, in for the injured James Anderson, was also handed his first Test cap. Rory Burns, Joe Denly and Jack Leach — one of two spinners selected by England along with Moeen Ali — also made their home debuts.
Ireland’s side included batsman Paul Stirling and seamer Tim Murtagh, who both play for Lord’s based-Middlesex, as well as former England fast bowler Boyd Rankin.
The match is being played over four days rather than the standard five for a Test match.
England vs Ireland: Playing 11s
England: Jason Roy, Rory Burns, Joe Denly, Joe Root (capt), Jonny Bairstow (wkt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Sam Curran, Stuart Broad, Olly Stone, Jack Leach
Ireland: William Porterfield (capt), James McCollum, Andrew Balbirnie, Paul Stirling, Kevin O’Brien, Gary Wilson (wkt), Stuart Thompson, Mark Adair, Andy McBrine, Tim Murtagh, Boyd Rankin