DUBLIN: Ireland Women edged out Pakistan Women in a dramatic finish, winning the final match on the last ball and securing the series. The thrilling victory capped off an exciting contest that showcased clutch performances and resilience under pressure.
The match opened with Pakistan Women winning the toss and opting to bat first against Ireland Women under some light cloud cover with a strong breeze blowing across the ground.
Pakistan Women batted more aggressively than they had done in the opening T20I which they had lost by 11 runs.
The visitors eventually went on to post 168-6, but Ireland fought back well with the ball. The key bowlers were Lara McBride (2-27), Cara Murray (2-33) and Orla Prendergast (1-22) who took her 50th wicket in T20Is for Ireland.
In response, Ireland Women scored 171-6; winning by four wickets. The key batters for the home side were Orla Prendergast (51), Laura Delany (42) and Rebecca Stokell (34*) to help take the match deep.
However, the key moment was the final delivery, and Jane Maguire’s first at the wicket, which was hit for six down the ground to get across the line.
Not only does the win give Ireland Women an unassailable 2-0 lead in this T20I series but it also continues the side’s nine-game winning streak in the format.
The two sides meet again in Clontarf for Game Three. Player of the Match: Rebecca Stokell.
