Did you know that Ireland, famous for its scenic views, hospitality, food, and a lot more was also a prime competitor of women’s cricket at some point? This was throughout the 90s and early 2000s when Ireland was considered a fierce competitor that conquered any challenge thrown at them. It’s been a while since we’ve seen that side of them but who says it can’t make a comeback? Ireland is one of the ten teams set to compete in the Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier later this month- is this their turn-around point?
History – Ireland Women’s Cricket Team
The Irish women made their World Cup debut in 1988, just a year after their ODI debut against Australia which they lost however, showed a praise-worthy spirit. Moreover, the Ireland women made their international ODI debut 19 years before their male counterparts! To begin with, this is not a feat many teams have achieved, and this was just the beginning. In 1993, they finished in the top 5 teams in the World Cup. 7 years later, they played their first-ever test match against Pakistan and won. Subsequently, Ireland played 4 more World Cups but their dominance gradually faded as they made their last World Cup appearance in 2005.
Record – Ireland Women’s Cricket Team
Ireland played their most recent ODI less than a month ago on the 11th of October against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club, Zimbabwe. The hosts elected to bowl first and soon reviewed their decision as Ireland smashed 312/3 in their quota of 50. This was done brilliantly by excellent contributions by many but the most pleasing knock was by the top-order batter Amy Hunter who scored 121* (127), winning the player of the match award. Along with this, Ireland also won this series against Zimbabwe, 3-1.
Despite the recent heroics, Ireland still has a lot to work on. So far, in their 152 international ODI experiences, only 42 have ended on the winning side. They have been outplayed over 100 times, 104 to be exact and this can only happen when your opponents have genuinely performed better than you. This year, they have won 3 of their 4 ODIs, all against Zimbabwe who they might contest again very soon in the Qualifier tournament.
Top Players – Ireland Women’s Cricket Team
1. Gaby Lewis
Gaby Hollis Lewis or as I’d call her- a prodigy is one of the best performers for Ireland in recent times and will be carrying the weight of tremendous expectations in the upcoming Qualifier tournament too. She made her international debut at just 13 and in 7 years, has scored 995 in T20Is runs with her highest score being an unbeaten 105. This places her in the second position of highest runs scored by Irish women in T20Is, just one good knock behind Clare Shellington who hasn’t played a game since 2017. In ODIs, she has scored 469 runs in 20 innings, averaging 26.1 at a strike rate of 60.4. Subsequently, she has also picked 10 wickets at an economy of 6.47.
2. Laura Delany
Second on this list is 28-year-old Laura Katherine Delany who is a right-handed batter and right-arm medium pace bowler. She is currently the captain of the team and has scored 634 runs in 37 innings remaining unbeaten in 4 instances, averaging 19.21. As a bowler, she has got the better of opposing batters on 17 instances in 22 innings at an economy of 4.72 and average 37.23. Delany has played over 100 matches combined making her one of the most experienced players on the side which will hopefully help her excel as a player and leader.
Importance
As aforementioned, the Ireland team has impressed many in the past and it is not doubtful at all that they mimic this. A world cup qualification under in such a scenario not only gives the team a chance to re-announce their entry in the international arena but also gives their supporters something to cherish, restoring their excitement and faith in the game. This will also remind them of the happy teams the team once gave them, encouraging them to provide the kind of support they once did.
Squad
Will be announced next week.
Coach
Ed Joyce
Fixtures
Ireland vs Netherlands – 21st November
Ireland vs West Indies – 23rd November
Ireland vs Sri Lanka – 25th November
Ireland vs Papua New Guinea – 27th November
Student, Athlete, and Cricket Enthusiast.