DUBLIN: In the third and final T20I of the series at Clontarf Cricket Club Ground on Sunday, Pakistan’s women’s cricket team achieved a commanding eight-wicket win against Ireland, highlighted by Muneeba Ali’s exceptional century.
Ireland set a challenging total of 155-4 in their 20 overs, with Orla Prendergast leading the charge with an impressive unbeaten 64 off 46 balls, including eight boundaries. She was supported by opener Amy Hunter, who added 29 runs off 33 balls with three boundaries and a six, forming a vital 50-run opening partnership. Ireland captain Gaby Lewis also contributed with a quick 36 off 22 balls, featuring eight boundaries. Middle-order batters Leah Paul and Rebecca Stokell struggled to make an impact, scoring 11 and five respectively, while Laura Delany remained not out on five off two balls.
Pakistan’s bowling attack saw Fatima Sana, Sadia Iqbal, Waheeda Akhtar, and Rameen Shamim each claiming a wicket.Chasing the target, Pakistan faced early setbacks with Shawaal Zulfiqar dismissed for three and Natalia Pervaiz for nine. However, the match turned in Pakistan’s favor thanks to a stellar unbeaten partnership of 101 runs between wicketkeeper Muneeba Ali and Aliya Riaz. Muneeba’s outstanding innings of 100 runs off 68 balls, including 14 boundaries and a six, set a record as the only Pakistani woman cricketer to score two T20I centuries. Aliya contributed a quick 39 off 27 balls with five boundaries.
Ireland’s Ava Canning and Lara McBride each took a wicket during the chase. Despite losing this match, Ireland secured the series with a 2-1 victory overall.
