Ireland Women Secure Series Win with Convincing 2-0 Lead Over Sri Lanka

New Delhi: In a dramatic development, Ireland’s women’s cricket team has clinched a 2-0 lead in their ODI series against Sri Lanka, the reigning Women’s Asia Cup champions, following a compelling performance on August 18, 2024. Despite the absence of regular captain Laura Delany and stand-in captain Gaby Lewis, Ireland showcased resilience and tactical acumen to seal the series victory.

Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first, applying early pressure on Ireland as they lost their openers to Achini Kulasuriya’s effective new-ball spell. Orla Prendergast, who had played a crucial role in the first ODI, was dismissed by Kavisha Dilhari, leaving Ireland in a precarious position at 77 for 3. However, Amy Hunter stepped up with a vital 66 from 71 balls, forming a key 57-run partnership with Leah Paul to stabilize the innings.

Despite Hunter’s departure, Leah Paul and Rebecca Stokell forged a significant 114-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Paul contributed 81 off 101 balls, while Stokell remained unbeaten with 53 off 61 balls. Their efforts helped Ireland post a formidable total of 255.

Sri Lanka’s response was bolstered by a maiden ODI century from Harshitha Samarawickrama, who joined Chamari Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunaratne—both of whom had made notable contributions in the previous ODI. However, Samarawickrama’s run out triggered a dramatic collapse, with Sri Lanka losing seven wickets for just 30 runs. Arlene Kelly played a pivotal role in this collapse, taking three wickets in a single over and finishing with figures of 3/41.

With this remarkable turnaround, Ireland has secured a 2-0 lead in the series. The final ODI, scheduled for August 20, offers Ireland the opportunity to complete a clean sweep and cap off a remarkable series.