Tim Murtagh was at a loss to comprehend his "dream" five-wicket haul as Ireland skittled out red-faced England for 85 runs at Lord's.
The 37-year-old Murtagh enjoyed a stunning first Test outing at his Middlesex home ground, shocking hosts England by taking five wickets for just 13 runs.
London-born Murtagh represented England Under-19s, but has stepped up at senior level with Ireland – and ripped through the home side on the first morning of the four-day Lord's Test.
Legend 👏#BackingGreen | #ENGvIRE pic.twitter.com/t2oNlD5mFr — Cricket Ireland (@Irelandcricket) July 24, 2019
"I'm not quite sure what's happened the last two hours to be honest," Murtagh told Sky Sports.
"It's just a dream to perform like that and to have my name up there on the honours board.
"I should know how to bowl on this ground, that was key, to get it up there and let the pitch do a little bit of work."
Murtagh claimed the prized scalps of openers Rory Burns and Jason Roy, with Jonny Bairstow, Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes all following.
We have been bowled out for 85. Scorecard & Videos: https://t.co/jyBiTOT7li#ENGvIRE pic.twitter.com/46y8WYZVPL — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 24, 2019
England crashed back to earth with a bump after their World Cup-winning exploits, with Murtagh at the centre of all things positive for Ireland.
Mark Adair bagged three for 32, with Boyd Rankin also stealing a brace.
Joe Denly top-scored for England with 23, with only Sam Curran on 18 and Olly Stone on 19 joining him in reaching double figures.
A standing ovation around Lord's for @tjmurtagh following an outstanding spell of bowling this morning!#BackingGreen ☘️ pic.twitter.com/Vm2nwcniZa — Cricket Ireland (@Irelandcricket) July 24, 2019
Admitting he never expected to trouble the away side of Lord's famed honours board, Murtagh revealed he would let himself enjoy the early lunch.
"To be honest I didn't think I'd be on the away board when I first started playing, but I'll take it wherever it goes," said Murtagh.
"It's a dream for any cricketer to have their name up on that board.
"I might have dessert (at lunch) now as well!"
