Ireland women defeat USA by 16 runs in thrilling T20 World Cup qualifier

WEB DESK: Ireland Women secured a 16-run victory over the United States in a high-stakes Group A encounter at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, played at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

Batting first, Ireland posted a competitive total of 154/7 in their allotted 20 overs, thanks to a match-winning 67 off 52 balls by Leah Paul, who was later named Player of the Match. Captain Gaby Lewis contributed a steady 42 off 32 balls, while Amy Hunter added 18 runs. Ireland’s innings featured key contributions from Rebecca Stokell (10) and Arlene Kelly (8), building a total that would prove challenging for the USA.

Ireland’s bowlers then tightened the screws. Ava Canning claimed 2 crucial wickets, while Arlene Kelly finished with 3 wickets, helping restrict the USA to 138/8 in 20 overs. Despite a valiant 41 off 30 balls by Ritu Singh and useful contributions from Chetna Pagydyala (22) and Disha Dhingra (12), the Americans fell short of the 155-run target. Extras were a costly 17, including 11 wides, which added pressure on the chase.

With this win, Ireland move closer to the top of the Group A points table, consolidating their position in the tournament. The USA, meanwhile, suffered a setback in their bid to qualify, with this defeat highlighting the importance of building partnerships under pressure.

SCORECARD HIGHLIGHTS

Ireland innings:

Leah Paul 67 (52 balls, 8 fours)
Gaby Lewis 42 (32 balls, 4 fours, 1 six)

USA innings:

Ritu Singh 41 (30 balls, 4 fours, 2 sixes)
Chetna Pagydyala 22 (25 balls)

Ireland’s disciplined bowling and timely partnerships were the difference in this exciting contest, keeping them firmly in contention for the knockout stages of the Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier.