Pakistan women bounce back against Ireland with Muneeba Ali’s century

DUBLIN Pakistan women won against the Ireland women team with eight wickets to spare in the third Twenty20 International (T20I) at the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground in Dublin, Ireland, ending their tour on a positive note.

Despite losing the series 2-0 prior to this match, Muneeba Ali’s century allowed Pakistan women to ensure a consolatory victory.

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Ireland set a target of 155 for four wickets in their four overs. The innings was anchored by Orla Prendergast, remained unbeaten on 64 runs off 46 balls, striking eight boundaries.

Support came from captain Gaby Lewis, who scored 36 off 22 balls, and opener Amy Hunter, who scored 29.

Muneeba Ali’s century steers Pakistan chase

When it was Pakistan’s turn to bat, wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali crafted a composed unbeaten 100 off 68 balls. Her innings featured fourteen 4s and a 6, blending patience with aggressive strokes to keep the scores coming.

Muneeba Ali reached her half-century in just 29 balls and carried her team confidently through the target chase.

Aliya Riaz played an important role alongside Muneeba, scoring 39 not out from 27 balls, including five boundaries.

Together, the Women in Green forged a strong partnership of 101 runs for the third wicket; steering Pakistan comfortably to their target with 14 balls to spare.

Early wickets fell as Pakistan lost openers Shawaal Zulfiqar and Natalia Pervaiz (who scored a mere 9 runs). Muneeba-Aliya partnership, however, solidified the innings and ensured no future losses.

Encouraging performance despite series outcome

Despite losing the series 2-1, Pakistan ended on a strong but consolatory note. Their bowlers shared wickets equally, with Rameen Shamim, Waheeda Akhtar, Saida Iqbal and Faitma Sana picking one wicket each, but struggled to restrict Ireland’s total.

India look to break ‘final barrier’ in Women’s World Cup

Pakistan’s intensive preparation included extended training camps focused on fitness and team cohesion, which appears to have paid dividends in the final game.

What’s next for Pakistan women’s team?

Next on Pakistan women’s horizon is a home series against South Africa before the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup later this year.

Read more: Pakistan women set 169-run target as Ireland chase in second T20I

Due to political tensions, Pakistan will play their World Cup matches at neutral venues in Sri Lanka under the tournament’s hybrid hosting model.