Ireland end World Cup with loss

Ireland bowed out of the cricket World Cup with an eight wicket loss to Sri Lanka.

The surprise team of the tournament couldn't end on a high note after being bowled out for just 77 runs in Grenada. Sri Lanka ruthlessly chased the meagre total in only ten overs losing two wickets.

Despite the disappointing loss Ireland captain Trent Johnston insisted that they can leave the tournament with their heads held high.

Their performances in the competition exceeded all expectations and included memorable wins over Pakistan and Bangladesh that put Irish cricket on the map.

Johnston believes that those wins, and the all-round professionalism that won them many admirers in the Caribbean, will help to change perceptions of the game in Ireland.

"I hope we will not be judged on this result because we've done well and we've got some good cricketers," Johnston said.

"We came out here to achieve that, putting Ireland on the map not only to people around the world but to people in our own back yard. We can reflect now on a great seven weeks."

Sri Lanka's captain Mahela Jayawardene praised his side's efforts and then looked forward to the rest of the tournament.

"I thought we came in knowing we had to get back into things and the boys played really well. Our body language, everything was really good.

"Up to now we've achieved our goals, getting to the semi-finals, and we'll hope to do well from there."

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