Veteran Ireland batter Paul Stirling made a strong statement with the bat on the opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh in Sylhet.
Playing as an opener in a Test match for only the second time, Stirling looked in fine touch as he crafted a solid 60-run innings, helping Ireland get off to a promising start.
He was eventually dismissed in the second session after lunch, ending a fluent knock that underlined his value in the longer format.
At stumps, Ireland finished day one at 270 for 8 following a strong start but a middle-and-late session where Bangladesh’s spinners regained control.
Match Status (as at close of Day 1)
Match: 1st Test, Ireland tour of Bangladesh, Sylhet, Nov 11-15 2025. ESPN Cricinfo+2Geo Super+2
Ireland 1st innings: 270-8 (90 overs at stumps) ESPN.com+2Dhaka Tribune+2
Paul Stirling’s score: 60 off 76 balls, with nine fours. India Today+2ESPN.com+2
Update time: Published 11 Nov 2025. ESPN.com
Short Stats Box – Paul Stirling (Test format)
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Runs scored in this innings | 60 |
| Balls faced in this innings | 76 |
| Boundaries (fours) | 9 |
| Team’s score at stumps (day 1) | 270-8 |
| Date of this performance | 11 November 2025 |