Ravindra, Blundell rescue NZ after early Ireland strikes: Only Test (Belfast)

New Zealand fought back impressively to end Day 1 of the one-off Test against Ireland at 361/5 at Stormont in Belfast.

After being reduced to 86/4 in the morning session, the visitors were rescued by a magnificent 217-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and Tom Blundell. Ravindra produced a fluent 121 from 194 balls before falling late in the day, while Blundell remained unbeaten on 142 at stumps, guiding New Zealand into a commanding position.

Ireland had made the perfect start after winning the toss and electing to bowl under favourable seam conditions. Mark Adair struck twice with the new ball to remove Tom Latham and Devon Conway, while the hosts kept pressure on through the opening sessions.

Harry Tector eventually dismissed Ravindra to break the huge stand, but New Zealand finished strongly with Dean Foxcroft unbeaten on 38 alongside Blundell.

New Zealand 361-5 (94 overs): Blundell 142*, Ravindra 121; Adair 3-66 vs Ireland

May 2026.