ISLAMABAD: Hosts Pakistan started their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Qualifier campaign on a winning note, defeating Ireland.
Pakistan’s consistent wicket-taking helped them advance their qualifying campaign by defeating Ireland by 38 runs.
After being put into bat, Pakistan had to rally after Gul Feroza was caught out for four.
Muniba Ali and Sidra Amin put on a good partnership, with Amin scoring a half-century before she was dismissed for 51 off 112 balls.
Alia Riaz scored 52 runs at a faster pace, bringing up her half-century off 54 balls to further bolster the hosts’ innings.
With her dismissal, Ireland began to squeeze as Pakistan lost their last five wickets for 23 and were all out for 217, with Jane Maguire taking three for 33.
Gabby Lewis and Amy Hunter led the chase for Ireland, both making 44 runs as they put on a 69-run stand for the second wicket.
Orla Prendergast then took over the scoring when she made 37 runs before Ireland sat at 178 for 9 with Diana Begg taking four wickets.
With Ireland’s chances growing, Pakistan completed the victory with the run-out of Cara Murray.
Scores in brief
Pakistan vs Ireland – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Pakistan 217 all out in 49.0 overs (Alia Riaz 52, Sidra Amin 51; Jane Maguire 3/33, Arlene Kelly 2/34)
Ireland 179 all out in 44.0 overs (Amy Hunter 44, Gabby Lewis 44; Diana Baig 4/35, Nashra Sindhu 3/41)
