Consistent Pratika leads India to a comfortable 6-wicket win vs Ireland

The Indian women’s team secured a commanding 6-wicket victory over Ireland in the first ODI of the three-match series, showcasing a dominant all-around performance.

Chasing 239, the Indian team cruised to the target in 34.3 overs, with the help of a composed 89 from opener Pratika Rawal and an unbeaten 53 from Tejal Hasabnis. Ireland started their innings cautiously after opting to bat but faced early setbacks.

Titas Sadhu and Sayali Satghare struck in the powerplay to leave Ireland struggling at 56/4. However, captain Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul stitched a crucial 117-run partnership to stabilize the innings. Lewis, who fell agonisingly short of a century at 92, and Paul, with a gritty 59, helped Ireland post a competitive 238/7. Late contributions from Arlene Kelly and Georgina Dempsey added valuable runs, while Priya Mishra’s 2/56 was instrumental in keeping Ireland in check.

India women beat Ireland women

Pratika Rawal leads India’s chase

India’s chase began explosively, with stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana smashing a brisk 41 off 29 balls. En route to her quickfire knock, Mandhana created history by becoming the fastest Indian women’s cricketer to complete 4000 runs in ODIs. Her dismissal at the end of the 10th over brought Rawal and Hasabnis together, and the duo ensured there were no further hiccups. Rawal’s 89 off 96 balls, laced with 10 boundaries, was the cornerstone of India’s chase.

Rawal looked in sublime touch during her 89 off 96 balls, laced with 10 boundaries, but her innings ended when she advanced down the pitch to a length delivery around off and attempted a lofted shot. The bat’s face opened slightly, resulting in plenty of height but not enough power to clear the straightish long-off fielder, who took a comfortable catch.

Hasabnis remained unbeaten on 53, anchoring the chase with ease after Rawal’s dismissal. Ireland’s Aimee Maguire claimed three wickets but failed to contain the Indian batters. The hosts maintained a steady scoring rate, capitalising on loose bowling and fielding lapses from the visitors.

This comprehensive win gives India a 1-0 lead in the series, with their batters and bowlers stepping up effectively. Ireland will aim to bounce back in the second ODI to keep the series alive.