Ireland Triumphs in Tense T20 Opener Against Pakistan Women in Dublin

In a spirited start to the three-match T20 series, Ireland Women held their nerve to clinch a hard-fought 11-run victory over Pakistan Women at Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin.

Coming off the back of a dominant 3-0 sweep against Zimbabwe last month, the Irish side carried their winning momentum into this new challenge, showing resilience and grit in front of their home crowd.

A Rocky Start, a Steady Recovery

Opting to bat first after losing the toss, Ireland found themselves in trouble early on as opener Gaby Lewis was dismissed cheaply for just one run. Fatima Sana, Pakistan’s pace spearhead, made an immediate impact with the ball, striking early and often.

Despite the early setback, Amy Hunter anchored the innings with a composed 37 before being bowled by Nashra Sandhu. Her innings was the stabilizing force Ireland needed in the powerplay. Orla Prendergast, later named Player of the Match, added a crucial 29 to keep the scoreboard ticking, even as wickets fell around her.

Leah Paul chipped in with a useful 28, while Laura Delany’s aggressive 16 included Ireland’s only six of the innings. However, the hosts looked vulnerable after a flurry of wickets in the middle order. Rebecca Stokell’s departure for 12 hinted at a possible collapse, but the team dug deep to post a competitive total of 142 in 19.4 overs.

Fatima Sana was the standout bowler for Pakistan, claiming four wickets in a fiery spell that nearly derailed Ireland’s innings.

Pakistan’s Reply Falters Despite Middle Order Fight

Chasing 143, Pakistan’s innings began with a stutter as they lost opener Muneeba Ali for just five runs—clean bowled by the relentless Orla Prendergast, who struck early and often with the ball.

The visitors continued to struggle, losing wickets at regular intervals. Jane Maguire, celebrating her 50th international cap, added a golden milestone by dismissing Gull Feroza for five, maintaining Ireland’s tight grip on the match.

Despite the top-order wobble, the middle order showed signs of a comeback. Natalia Pervaiz provided a glimmer of hope with an enterprising 29, which included Pakistan’s only six of the innings. Rameen Shamim (27) and Fatima Sana (14) tried to build a late partnership, but the Irish bowlers kept things tight in the death overs.

Orla Prendergast returned to seal the deal, finishing with impressive figures of 3-28, showcasing her all-round brilliance. Maguire chipped in with another crucial wicket as Pakistan’s hopes of a comeback dwindled.

Momentum and Morale Boost for Ireland

This victory marks yet another statement of intent from an Irish side that is steadily growing in confidence and consistency. Beating Zimbabwe 3-0 was impressive, but holding off a strong team like Pakistan, known for their experience and depth, adds another layer to Ireland’s rising reputation in women’s cricket.

For Pakistan, there were moments of promise—particularly with the ball—but the batting lacked cohesion. Fatima Sana’s individual brilliance was a bright spot, but she’ll need more support from her teammates in the matches ahead.

Next Stop: Round Two

The two teams will meet again at the same venue on Friday for the second T20. Ireland will be aiming to seal the series, while Pakistan will look to bounce back and level things up.

With competitive fire, skillful performances, and a touch of drama, the series is shaping up to be a gripping contest between two sides eager to make their mark on the international stage.