Ireland Under-15s made the perfect start to their Celtic Cup series against old rivals Scotland with a thumping 168-run victory at Upritchard Park in Bangor.

A strong all-round batting effort saw Ireland compile 242 in 48.1 overs before an outstanding bowling display dismantled Scotland for just 74 inside 28 overs.

David Agnew led the Irish batting with a composed 54 from 82 balls, striking four boundaries, after Vidath Geddam had provided early momentum with 39 from 31 deliveries, including three sixes. 

Ireland had slipped to 85 for five before Agnew steadied proceedings, initially receiving support from Jacob Blair.

Shravon Biju then provided the crucial late acceleration, hitting six fours in an unbeaten 42 from 36 balls, while Elliott Parkhill struck 23 from 20 deliveries as Ireland moved beyond 240.

Scotland’s reply quickly unravelled against a disciplined Irish attack.

Biju struck twice with the new ball to leave the visitors 26 for two before Fintan McCarthy and a run-out reduced them to 32 for three.

The outstanding spell came from Ballyspallen youngster Jacob Blair, who produced remarkable figures of three wickets for just four runs from six overs, including three maidens.

Blair’s double strike in the 19th over effectively ended any lingering Scottish resistance, while Agnew completed an excellent personal match by taking two for 11.

Alfie Moan needed just one delivery to claim the final wicket, wrapping up the innings at 74 in 27.1 overs.

It was an emphatic opening statement from Ireland, with contributions throughout the side and a particularly ruthless performance with the ball.

The victory puts the hosts 1-0 ahead in the Celtic Cup series and gives them an ideal platform as they look to maintain the upper hand over their traditional rivals. The teams are back in action on Tuesday in the second of the four-game series.