Ireland pulled off a dramatic win against England in a rain-affected ODI in Belfast, marking their first victory over the visitors in this format since 2001. In a match that swung both ways, Ireland chased down England’s total of 153 with just one ball to spare, winning by three wickets.
England, after being sent in to bat, managed 153 in 20.5 overs, with opener Tammy Beaumont’s 52 from 42 balls anchoring the innings. Despite a steady start, the England side faltered in the middle overs, losing wickets at regular intervals.
Aimee Maguire was the standout bowler for Ireland, claiming a remarkable five-wicket haul, conceding just 19 runs in 3.5 overs. Other notable contributions with the ball came from Freya Sargent, who picked up two wickets, and Alana Dalzell and Orla Prendergast, both chipping in with a wicket each.
England’s collapse began early, with opener Emma Lamb falling for 11, and continued as key middle-order batters Freya Kemp (3) and Bess Heath (5) failed to capitalize on solid starts. The visitors lost their last five wickets for just 41 runs, struggling to build partnerships in the face of Maguire’s lethal spell.
In response, Ireland’s top order, led by captain Gaby Lewis, seemed poised for a comfortable chase. Lewis played a captain’s knock, scoring a solid 72 off 56 balls, including 10 boundaries.
However, Ireland’s innings mirrored England’s collapse, as they lost seven wickets, with Mady Villiers’ spin causing major damage by taking 3 for 30. Lauren Filer also contributed with two crucial wickets, including the dismissal of the dangerous Lewis.
As the game entered its final over, Ireland needed eight runs with three wickets in hand. Drama unfolded as England claimed three wickets in three consecutive balls, leaving Ireland requiring four from the last delivery.
It was number-nine batter Alana Dalzell who held her nerve, smashing the final ball to the boundary to seal an unforgettable win for Ireland.
This victory is a significant milestone for Ireland, showing their resilience and ability to hold their own in high-pressure situations against top-tier opposition.
