England’s limited-overs tour to Ireland concluded with the hosts leveling the two-match T20I series. Ireland secured a dramatic win over England in the second T20I by chasing down a record total of 170. They won the match by five wickets, resulting in a 1-1 series tie.
Gaby Lewis, leading the Ireland side, chose to field first. The visitors posted a respectable total of 169 for the loss of 8 wickets, with Tammy Beaumont (40) being the top scorer for England. However, Ireland successfully chased the total, courtesy of Orla Prendergast’s (80) masterful performance. Prendergast’s innings not only secured Ireland’s highest-ever T20I total against England but also marked their first-ever T20I win against them. Ireland won the match by five wickets with one ball to spare.
Highlights from the match:
1) Orla Prendergast (Ireland) (Player of the Series)
The Irish all-rounder was awarded the Player of the Series for her exceptional performance in the two T20Is against England. In the first T20I, Orla scored 52 off 34 balls while her side chased a target of 177. Her innings, which included eight boundaries, was the top score for her team despite their loss.
In the second T20I, Orla excelled with both bat and ball. She claimed two wickets, dismissing Georgia Adams for 23 and Hollie Armitage on the next ball. Later, Orla’s 80 off 51 balls, featuring 13 boundaries, led Ireland to their historic T20I win against England. She was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance.
2) Arlene Kelly 2/22 (Ireland)
Arlene Kelly delivered an impressive performance in the second T20I by taking two wickets. She dismissed Bryony Smith for 28, which was the opening wicket for Ireland in the seventh over. Later, she removed the dangerous Tammy Beaumont for 40 in the fifteenth over. Kelly was economical throughout her four overs, finishing with figures of 2/22.
3) Tammy Beaumont 40 (England)
The English opener continued her consistent run in the series-concluding match. Tammy Beaumont was the top scorer for England with 40 off 34 balls. She was involved in a 44-run stand for the opening wicket with Bryony Smith and a 49-run stand for the third wicket with Seren Smale. Tammy struck seven boundaries during her innings.