Chasing 180, Ireland never really looked like getting close to the target as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals.
New Zealand tour of Ireland will now continue with the second match of their three-match T20I series at Belfast’s Stormont
Speaking to the host broadcaster after the game, Balbirnie lauded the Kiwis for their brilliant fightback with the bat after an early collapse
Phillips, in particular, scored an unbeaten 69 off 52, whereas other batters faltered around him.
New Zealand, who are currently on their European tour, have agreed with the Netherlands to prepone the second T20I of their two-match series to August 5.
New Zealand, riding on Glenn Phillips's scintillating half-century knock and Lockie Ferguson's breathtaking spell, swatted away Ireland by 31 runs in the first T20I
Fionn Hand has been included in the Ireland squad for the three-match T20I series against New Zealand after Conor Olphert had to withdraw due to injury.
New Zealand's tour of Ireland will now continue with a three-match T20I series at Belfast’s Stormont on Monday.
The Blackcaps were pushed to their limit in all three games, with Ireland taking the games down to the wire
Ireland, who were playing the third and final ODI of the three-match series to salvage some pride against the Kiwis, fell just 1 run short of avoiding a clean sweep