The first clash in a 50-over match between Pakistan and Ireland since the famous World Cup upset in 2007 could not have produced a more different encounter as Pakistan triumphed by seven wickets in the opening match in Clontarf.

The first clash in a 50-over match between Pakistan and Ireland since the famous World Cup upset in 2007 could not have produced a more different encounter as Pakistan triumphed by seven wickets in the opening match in Clontarf.

Following a lengthy delay due to rain, the match was reduced to 36 overs per side although Ireland were quickly dismissed for just 96 in only 20 overs.

Pakistan then reached their target in 27.3 overs as they played safely to make it two international wins in two matches following their 196-run success in the second Test against the West Indies in Saint Kitts earlier in the week.

Left-arm quick Junaid Khan did the bulk of the damage to Ireland's batting with a haul of four for 12 while off-spinner Saeed Ajmal returned three for six in three overs as Pakistan took control.

Paul Stirling hammered 39 in 22 balls at the top of the order with seven fours and one six although he was one of only three players to reach double figures as Ireland's chances of causing another upset quickly disappeared.

In-form opener Mohammad Hafeez then stroked 52 in 85 balls to lay the foundations for Pakistan's win, settling any nerves by putting on 71 with Taufeeq Umar (23) for the first wicket.

He was dismissed when he was bowled by Alex Cusack, who went on to dismiss both Umar and Asad Shafiq (4) before Pakistan were carried home by Younus Khan (6 not out) and Misbah-ul-Haq (4 not out).

The second final match is on 30th May.