Paul Stirling struck three boundaries in one over

Ireland suffered a five-wicket defeat against South Africa in their opening U19 World Cup game in New Zealand.

The Irish were put in to bat in overcast conditions and scored 216-6 in their 50 overs, with Ben Ackland (66) and Lee Nelson (55) the top scorers.

Stephan Smith hit an unbeaten 67 as the South Africans needed just 43.4 overs to reach the victory target - Stuart Thompson was the best bowler with 2-29.

Ireland return to Queenstown on Sunday to take on Australia.

Senior international Paul Stirling scored a quick-fire 19 but Ireland were soon struggling on 36-4.

Ackland and Nelson saved the Irish from collapse as they added 117 in 28.1 overs.

Graham McDonnell (24 not out) and Stuart Poynter (25 not out) put together a 45-run partnership in just 26 balls.

Wayward bowling helped South Africa to reach 67 without loss in 11 overs.

Stirling took two wickets in five balls but South Africa coasted to 220-5 with over six overs to spare.

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