Harry Tector steers Ireland to warm-up win over United States ahead of Cricket World Cup Qualifier

Harry Tector hit an unbeaten 149 to steer Ireland to a five-wicket victory over the United States in their first warm-up match ahead of the World Cup Qualifier.

Tector, who on Tuesday was named International Men's Player of the Month by the International Cricket Council, thumped ten fours and seven sixes as Ireland met their target of 313 with more than four overs to spare in Bulawayo.

Ireland won the toss and elected to bowl but they struggled for early wickets as Steven Taylor and Sushant Modani combined for an opening stand of 67.

Ben White removed both openers but Aaron Jones then combined with captain Monank Patel for a 125-run partnership, Jones top-scoring for the USA with 89.

Jones pushed for a century alongside Saiteja Mukkamalla but was dismissed by Andy McBrine, while Mukkamalla ended on 44 not out.

In response, Ireland faltered at seven for two before Paul Stirling made 55 off 53 balls to steady the ship, as his side reached the halfway mark of their innings just behind the run rate at 154 for three.

Stirling handed the run-scoring baton to Tector, who blasted Ireland to victory.

Ireland continue their preparations with a game against the Netherlands on Thursday, before facing Oman in their World Cup Qualifier opener on Monday.