Pakistan romps to ODI victory over Ireland

Junaid Khan took four wickets for just 12 runs, spinner Saeed Ajmal chipped in with 3-6 and Mohammad Hafeez hit a half-century as Pakistan romped to a seven-wicket victory over Ireland in their One-Day International on Saturday.

Pakistan's bowlers skittled Ireland out for 96 in only 20 overs and the tourists eased to 97-3 in the 28th over to secure victory in a rain-affected match.

Paul Stirling top-scored for the hosts with 39 after play had been delayed by more than three hours due to morning rain.

But after Stirling became Junaid's first victim, the wickets fell at regular intervals to leave Ireland vulnerable in a match reduced to 36 overs-a-side. Hafeez, with 52, and Taufeeq Umar (23) ensured there would be no upset.