Ireland Women turned the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier Super Six clash into a one-sided affair, hammering Thailand Women by 62 runs in a match that showcased their growing confidence and depth. After winning the toss, Ireland chose to bat first, and while the innings was not explosive, it was built on calm decision making and timely contributions that set the tone for what followed.
Amy Hunter gave Ireland the early spark. She came out with clear intent, driving and cutting with ease as she raced to 24 from just 15 balls. Her short stay lifted the tempo and put Thailand’s bowlers under pressure straight away. At the other end, captain Gaby Lewis played with patience and responsibility, focusing on rotating the strike rather than taking unnecessary risks. Her 25 off 30 balls provided the stability Ireland needed.
Orla Prendergast once again stood tall in the middle order. Confident and composed, she struck 24 off 22 deliveries, including a only six from her team that briefly shifted momentum back in Ireland’s favour. Thailand, however, refused to let the game drift. Their bowlers tightened the screws, and wickets fell just as Ireland looked to accelerate. The middle and lower order struggled to find rhythm, with several batters unable to convert starts into meaningful scores.
Louise Little and Jane Maguire added valuable runs late in the innings, Maguire remaining unbeaten with a lively 15. Combined with a handful of extras, Ireland pushed their total to 121 for 8 a score that felt competitive rather than commanding, but one their bowlers were more than capable of defending. Thailand’s Suleeporn Laomi was the standout with the ball, claiming four wickets and keeping Ireland from scoring free.
If Ireland’s batting was measured, their bowling was ruthless. Thailand’s chase never gained momentum as early wickets shattered any hopes of a steady pursuit. Nathakan Chantham and Nannapat Koncharoenkai showed brief promises, while captain Naruemol Chaiwai fought hard for her 22, but the rest of the line up simply could not cope with Ireland’s relentless pressure.
Lara McBride set the tone with a brilliant spell, removing key batters and finishing with 3 for just 6. Arlene Kelly followed with a performance to remember, tearing through the order on her way to stunning figures of 4 for 7. Aimee Maguire chipped in with two wickets, ensuring Thailand never got the stabilised to chase.
Thailand were bowled out for just 59 in 16.1 overs, sealing a dominant 62-run victory for Ireland. It was a performance that reflected a team growing stronger with each match calm with the bat and fierce with the ball.
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