England Women record historic WODI win against Ireland
England's Women's cricket team made history by defeating Ireland with a record-breaking 275-run victory in the second one-day international (ODI) held in Belfast. The match saw England amass a total of 320-8 in 50 overs, largely due to Tammy Beaumont's unbeaten 150 - her 10th century at this level. In reply, the Irish team was dismissed for just 45 within 17 overs.
England's bowling prowess seals victory
England's victory was further cemented by their bowling prowess, with captain Kate Cross and new-ball partner Lauren Filer each taking three wickets for just eight and 10 runs respectively. The Irish team struggled to match this performance, with opener Una Raymond-Hoey's 22 being the only double-figure score of her side's innings. This decisive win puts England 2-0 up in a three-match series.
England's largest ODI win achieved by 2nd-string team
Interestingly, this historic victory, which marks England's largest women's ODI win in terms of runs, was achieved by a predominantly second-string team. The majority of England's 2024 ICC Women's T20 World Cup squad was not involved in the match. As per ESPNcricinfo, England overall recorded the eighth-largest WODI win. They also bundled out Ireland for their lowest-ever ODI total. Ireland's 45 is now the third-lowest WODI score against England.
Beaumont reflects on challenging start against Ireland
Despite the significant win, Beaumont acknowledged the initial challenges faced by England. "I found it tough early on and Ireland were bowling tight lines with a slower pace on the pitch," she said. Notably, Beaumont now holds the third position in the overall most WODI hundreds list. Her tally of 10 tons is only surpassed by Meg Lanning (15) and Suzie Bates (13).
