Ally Shields scored a record century for the Ulster Grasshoppers but it was in vain as they were beaten by four wickets against Claremont in their tour finale.

Batting first the tourists lost Richard Simpson early, but Shields ahred a second wicket stand of 87 with Johnny Waite (38) to get the innings back on track.

On a track regarded as one of the best in Cape Town with a breath-taking backdrop of Table Mountain and a fast-scoring outfield. Shields scored an unbeaten 120 - a record individual effort for the tourists - hitting 11 boundaries and a six in his 126-ball effort.

The unbroken third wicket stand of 151 saw Player of the Tour Aaron Wright score his third half century - his unbeaten 60 from 56 deliveries seeing the Grasshoppers finish their 40 overs on 240 for 2.

When Callum Atkinson (3-49) and Richard Simpson reduced the home side to 41 for 3, it looked as if they would end the trip on a winning note.

However. Western Province and Worcestershire player Josh Breed thumped 95 to put his side in control and they coasted to a four-wicket win despite two wickets for Wright.

All five games have been competitve and the Grasshoppers will reflect on dropped catches at crucial times.

The party of 33 have been fantastic ambassadors for NCU and Irish cricket. They were welcomed warmly whereever they went, forging friendships that will last a lifetime.