Hosts Pakistan got their ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Qualifier campaign off to a winning start as they defeated Ireland.
Pakistan's steady wicket-taking powered them to a 38-run win over Ireland to get their qualifying campaign up and running.
Having been put into bat, Pakistan had to rally after Gull Feroza was caught behind on four.
Muneeba Ali and Sidra Amin put together a decent partnership, with Amin kicking on to a half-century before she was dismissed for 51 from 112 balls.
Aliya Riaz top-scored with 52 at a much quicker pace, bringing up her half-century in 54 balls to add impetus to the hosts’ innings.
Her dismissal saw Ireland begin to apply the squeeze as Pakistan lost their final five wickets for 23 and were dismissed for 217, Jane Maguire picking up three for 33.
Gaby Lewis and Amy Hunter led the chase for Ireland, both compiling 44 runs as they shared a second-wicket partnership of 69.
Orla Prendergast then took over the scoring as she made 37 before Ireland wobbled to sit at 178 for nine with Diana Baig taking four wickets.
With Ireland’s chances growing slimmer, Pakistan completed the victory with the run out of Cara Murray.
Scores in brief
Pakistan v Ireland – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Pakistan 217 all out in 49.0 overs (Aliya Riaz 52, Sidra Amin 51; Jane Maguire 3/33, Arlene Kelly 2/34)
Ireland 179 all out in 44.0 overs (Amy Hunter 44, Gaby Lewis 44; Diana Baig 4/35, Nashra Sandhu 3/41)
Result: Pakistan win by 38 runs