McCullum and Marshall flay Ireland

All a depleted Irish team could offer was blood, toil, sweat and tears. On this occasion their players were just not in the same class as the New Zealand batsmen, who did much as they pleased with the weakened attack. The star performers were Brendon McCullum with 166, his maiden one-day century, and James Marshall on 161, also his first one-day ton. The opening partnership of 266 was only 20 runs short of the world record, achieved by Upul Tharanga and Sanath Jayasuriya of Sri Lanka against England, two years ago to the exact day, reports Cricinfo.

Ireland, already depleted by players staying with their counties and a host of others unavailable, were struck by another late injury blow.

New Zealand 402 for 2 (McCullum 166, Marshall 161) v Ireland.