Ireland Women took a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20 International series after defeating Pakistan Women by 11 runs in the opening encounter played in Dublin on Wednesday.
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana delivered a standout all-round performance, claiming four wickets for 26 runs, taking two catches, and assisting in a run-out. However, despite her efforts, Pakistan fell short in their chase of 143 and managed to post 131 for 9 in the allotted 20 overs.
This was Ireland’s fifth win in 20 T20 Internationals against Pakistan, who have won the other 15 matches between the two sides.
Eyman Fatima was handed her T20I debut by Pakistan in this match. The young batter had impressed earlier this year in the National T20 tournament, scoring 287 runs at a strike rate of 155 across eight matches.
Winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bowl first. Ireland were bowled out for 142 in 19.4 overs. Amy Hunter top-scored with 37 runs off 30 balls, while Orla Prendergast and Leah Paul chipped in with 29 and 28 runs respectively. For Pakistan, Fatima Sana was the most successful bowler with 4 wickets. Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, Rameen Shamim, and Diana Baig picked up one wicket each. Ireland at one stage were cruising at 108 for 3, but Pakistan’s bowlers and fielders pulled things back effectively, restricting the hosts by claiming the last seven wickets for just 34 runs.
In reply, Pakistan had a shaky start. Openers Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza were dismissed for 5 runs each. The middle order also struggled as Sidra Amin (15), Aliya Riaz (14), debutant Eyman Fatima (4), and captain Fatima Sana (14) were unable to build substantial partnerships. At one stage, Pakistan were reduced to 70 for 6, making the chase increasingly difficult.
Natalia Pervaiz emerged as Pakistan’s top scorer with 29 runs, hitting a six and three fours, while Rameen Shamim made a fighting 27 with four boundaries. With 22 runs required off the final over, Pakistan could only manage 10, handing Ireland an 11-run win.
Orla Prendergast was impressive with the ball as well, picking up 3 wickets for 28 runs in four overs, earning her the Player of the Match award.
The remaining two matches of the series will be played in Dublin on August 8 and 10.
