DUBLIN: Ireland Women secured an 11-run victory over Pakistan Women in the first T20 International on Wednesday, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana starred with a career-best 4/26, but her efforts were not enough as the visitors fell short while chasing 143.
Ireland, put in to bat first, were bowled out for 142 in 19.4 overs, with Amy Hunter (37) top-scoring. At 108/3, they looked set for a bigger total, but Pakistan’s bowlers struck back, with Sana’s four-wicket haul restricting them.
Pakistan’s chase got off to a poor start, losing openers Muniba Ali (5) and Gull Feroza (5) cheaply. Wickets fell at regular intervals, with Sidra Amin (15), Aliya Riaz (14), debutant Iman Fatima (4), and Fatima Sana (14) failing to build big partnerships.
Natalia Parvez (29) and Rameen Shamim (27) fought hard, but Pakistan could only manage 131/9 in 20 overs. Ireland’s Orla Prendergast (3/28) was the pick of the bowlers.
This was Ireland’s 5th win in 20 T20Is against Pakistan, who have won 15. The next two matches will be played in Dublin on August 8 and 10.
Despite the loss, Fatima Sana’s all-round performance (4 wickets, 2 catches, and a run-out) stood out as a bright spot for Pakistan. The visitors will look to bounce back in the remaining games.
Also read: Pakistan women’s cricket team arrives in Ireland for T20 series
