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DUBLIN: Orla Prendergast’s all-around performance led Ireland to an 11-run victory over Pakistan in the first match of the three-match T20I series here at the Clontarf Cricket Club on Wednesday.
Chasing a 143-run target, Pakistan crumbled under pressure and could only muster 131-9 in their allocated 20 overs.
In pursuit of the target, Green Shirts were jolted by Ireland’s bowlers with early wickets. Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali were sent back to the pavilion on five, five runs respectively.
Consequently, Pakistan was reduced to 22-2 in only 3.5 overs.
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However, Sidra Amin and Aliya Riaz tried to steady Pakistan’s ship in the chase, with a brief stand of 20 runs. On a total of 42 in 9.1 overs, both batters were dismissed on successive balls.
Ireland continued to strike at regular intervals amid a shambolic batting display from Pakistan’s middle order. Green Shirts’ trouble was evident with the highest partnership of only 31 runs between Natalia Pervaiz and Rameen Shamim.
Rameen Shamim was caught on 27 from 20 balls, striking four boundaries, whereas Natalia Pervaiz emerged as the top scorer for her 29 off 23 balls with the aid of three fours and a six.
For Ireland, Orla Prendergast was the standout bowler, scalping three wickets in her four overs.
Earlier, after being put into bat, Ireland were bowled for 142 runs in 19.4 overs.
Amy Hunter top scored with 37 off 30 balls, managing to hit five boundaries, while Orla Prendergast was equally good for her 29 from 26 deliveries. She struck three fours in her gutsy knock.
The duo added a vital 42-run partnership for the second wicket, which helped the home side reach a winning total.
For Pakistan, Fatima Sana starred with the ball, taking a four-wicket haul and giving away only 26 runs in her four overs.
The second T20I between Ireland and Pakistan will be played on Friday, August 8, at the same venue.
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