Ireland’s hopes of advancing in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier came to an end following a closely contested match against Bangladesh in Lahore. Bangladesh proved their mettle in a rollercoaster of a match. They took a fitting victory to win by two wickets, while it left Ireland to think what could have been.
After winning the toss, Ireland chose to bat first and put a big score on the board – a tough task for any team against them. Laura Delany led the way with a commendable performance, scoring 63 runs, while Orla Prendergast contributed a solid 41 runs. Ireland showed their heart and class from the opening whistle. They did so in style, amassing 235 runs for the loss of just eight wickets in 50 overs.
After a strong opening from the team from Ireland, the match pulled a complete 180 when Bangladesh opened up to bat. Our participants from Bangladesh had a difficult time. Their ambitions soon fell to as little as 2 runs with 2 wickets left. The batting side would continue to find the mounting pressure their undoing as they were unable to find any rhythm or flow.
Ireland’s bowlers did their best to put them on the back foot at every opportunity. They did so first by dismissing captain Nigar Sultana Joty, who succumbed to a catch by Amy Hunter, having made 51. Joty’s dismissal was the fifth Bangladesh wicket to fall and put Ireland on course for a famous victory.
The incredible tide-turning performance came when Bangladeshi bowler Ritu Moni (above) did just that. She shone brightly in that match, scoring a brilliant 67 not out off 61 deliveries. Her resilience at the crease proved vital as she guided her team through turbulent moments and towards reaching the target set by Ireland.
The main reason Bangladesh were able to pull off the massive upset was the efforts of their bowlers. Rabeya Khan shone with the ball, taking three wickets, while team-mate Khatun took her tally to eight in the tournament with two more wickets to her name. Their efforts were instrumental in limiting the chances Ireland could create and putting them under pressure in the key moments of the match.
Despite the intensity of the contest, Bangladesh saw through to a jubilant win, finishing on 236 runs for the loss of eight wickets. This victory proved to be a watershed moment for Bangladesh. It also blew Ireland’s World Cup dreams.
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