Ireland Women's cricket team registers historic T20I victory over England
Ireland Women's cricket team has made history by securing their first-ever T20I win against England. The thrilling match took place on Sunday, September 15 at Castle Avenue in Dublin. Orla Prendergast led the Irish team to victory with an impressive 80-run knock off just 51 balls, enabling them to chase down a target of 170 runs. This landmark win allowed Ireland to draw the two-match series 1-1, following a disappointing defeat in the first match.
England sets competitive target in 1st innings
England, batting first, set a challenging target of 169/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Openers Bryony Smith and Tammy Beaumont provided a solid start with a 44-run partnership off just 38 balls. However, Ireland's Arlene Kelly broke this partnership by dismissing both openers. Beaumont's contribution of 40 runs off 34 balls was significant in setting up England's total. Paige Scholfield and Georgia Adams also made valuable contributions to the team's score.
Ireland's successful chase and Prendergast's stellar performance
In response to England's total, Ireland lost Amy Hunter early in their innings. However, captain Gaby Lewis and Prendergast steadied the ship with a 79-run partnership for the second wicket. Prendergast continued her outstanding performance, bringing her team close to victory. Leah Paul and Christina Coulter Reilly ensured Ireland's win in the final over. For her exceptional performance, Prendergast was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series.
Do you know?
This game saw England Women become the first to play 600 white-ball matches in women's international cricket. Since their debut in 1973, England Women have secured a total of 236 victories out of 398 ODIs, as per ESPNcricinfo. This places them second on the list of teams with the most ODI wins. In T20I cricket, they have an even more impressive record with a total of 146 victories (202 matches).
