New Zealand posts 361/5 in first Test against Ireland

New Zealand seized control on the opening day of its historic first Test match against Ireland, finishing Wednesday at 361 for five after a commanding century partnership rescued the visitors from early trouble. The four-day contest is being played at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Stormont, Belfast.

Ireland, hosting a Test for the first time in nearly two years and fielding three debutants, enjoyed a dream start after winning the toss and choosing to bowl. Seamer Mark Adair bowled New Zealand captain Tom Latham for a duck with just the second ball of the match. Adair struck again in the seventh over when debutant Liam McCarthy took a spectacular diving catch at short midwicket to remove Devon Conway for four.

McCarthy then claimed a prized first Test wicket, trapping the experienced Kane Williamson leg before wicket for 36. When Adair had Daryl Mitchell caught behind, New Zealand was in a precarious position at 84 for four. However, a mammoth 217-run partnership between Rachin Ravindra and wicketkeeper Tom Blundell shifted the momentum decisively.

Ravindra compiled a patient 121, his fifth Test century, while Blundell played fluently to finish the day unbeaten on 142. Their...