India Women triumphed over Ireland Women by six wickets in the first ODI match held at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, successfully chasing down Ireland’s target of 239 runs. The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, marking their strong performance following recent success against the West Indies.
After winning the toss, Ireland elected to bat first, posting a competitive total of 238 for 7 wickets. Gaby Lewis was the standout performer for Ireland, scoring 92 runs off 129 balls, and Leah Paul contributed significantly with 59 runs. The duo combined for a 117-run partnership, stabilizing the innings after Ireland lost their way early on.
For India, fast bowler Priya Mishra was particularly effective, taking two wickets for 56 runs, whereas Saima Thakur claimed one wicket but successfully restricted runs, conceding just 30 runs from her 10 overs.
India’s response started on the front foot, driven by Smriti Mandhana’s brisk innings of 41 runs from 29 balls. Her dismissal, along with Harleen Deol’s quick exit for 20 runs, added some pressure on the middle order. Nevertheless, Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasabnis anchored the innings with compelling partnerships, constructing 116 runs for the fourth wicket.
Rawal, who scored 89 runs off 96 balls, showcased her talent and poise, battling close to her century. She hit 10 boundaries and one six during her innings, hitting the accelerator during the final portion of the chase.
Hasabnis contributed significantly, scoring 53 not out—a milestone for her as it marked her maiden ODI half-century. Her calculated approach helped steer India closer to victory as she manipulated the bowling well, ensuring runs flowed steadily.
Richa Ghosh rounded off the innings with her 8 not out, finishing the match with style by slicing Dempsey's delivery for four, sealing the win for India with 15 overs to spare.
Despite the loss, Ireland’s captain Gaby Lewis expressed pride over her team’s effort, stressing the positives they could draw from the game. She acknowledged the need for adaptation to the conditions and praised her players’ performances, especially the spinners and fielders who worked hard throughout the match.
Looking back at the build-up to this landmark match, India arrived fresh off a 3-0 series win over the West Indies, bolstered by players like Mandhana and Mishra, who shone throughout those encounters. Coach and management made notable changes for this series, resting regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur and other key players to test the depth of the squad.
The match served as a pivotal moment for women’s cricket, particularly for the Irish side, which marked their first-ever bilateral ODI match against India. The upcoming fixtures will now be closely observed as both teams work to build momentum for the future.
For the next encounter, India aims to maintain its winning streak, cultivating confidence leading up to the ICC ODIs scheduled for 2025. Ireland, on the other hand, must reassess and regroup, leveraging their individual talents and the experience gained from this match as they look to bounce back on January 12.