Kevin O'Brien and Paul Stirling secure thrilling tie against Pakistan

Irish World Cup hero Kevin O'Brien and the man who scored a breathtaking century two years ago against the same opposition have led Ireland to a tie in the 1st One Day International overnight. In a rain-affected match, Ireland were chasing a D/L revised target of 276 in 47 overs. Opener Paul Stirling repeated his feats of two years ago with another century - a run a ball 103 which featured 12 fours and a six. It was Kevin O'Brien though who gave the chase some momentum with a rapid 84* off only 47 balls. Ireland needed 13 runs off the final three balls with O'Brien hitting a six, a two, before a four off the final delivery of the match tied the scores.

Earlier, Pakistan's innings was constantly interrupted with rain, however kudos to the ground-staff for their great work in ensuring that hardly any play was lost. Nasir Jamshed retired hurt after a back injury, while fellow opener Imran Farhat made a scratchy 9 off 34 balls before being dismissed by Alex Cusack. Mohammad Hafeez and Asad Shafiq wrestled the momentum back from Ireland with a stand of 188, before Shafiq gave Cusack his second scalp. Hafeez continued on though scoring an unbeaten 122* at more than a run a ball. In the end though it will be the innings of O'Brien which will be remembered from this match which secured Ireland their first positive result (tie/loss) against a full member on Irish soil.

The second ODI which is now the series decider is to be played on Sunday.