Ireland edge Scotland in thriller to knock them out of Women’s World Cup Qualifier

Ireland held their nerve in a nail-biting finish to eliminate Scotland from the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025, clinching a dramatic one-wicket victory despite a heroic all-round performance by Scotland’s Kathryn Bryce.

Scotland, needing a win to stay in contention for the top two spots, put up a strong fight with Bryce’s unbeaten 131* and figures of 3/49 almost single-handedly carrying her side. But Ireland, led by a late charge from former captain Laura Delany, sealed the match with just two balls to spare, dashing Scottish hopes.

Scotland chose to bat first but were in early trouble at 19/3 after a fiery opening burst from Ava Canning and Cara Murray. Kathryn Bryce, however, anchored the innings brilliantly, scoring her maiden ODI century with 14 fours and 2 sixes, guiding her team to a competitive total of 268/8.

Canning (3/48) and Murray (2/55) were the pick of Ireland’s bowlers, supported by Orla Prendergast and Jane Maguire with a wicket apiece.

In response, Ireland got off to a flying start with Sarah Forbes (55) and Gaby Lewis (48) putting on a 100+ stand. But a mid-innings collapse, triggered by sharp bowling and tight fielding from Scotland – especially from Katherine Fraser (2/37) and Chloe Abel – saw the Irish lose momentum and wickets.

As the pressure mounted and the asking rate climbed, Laura Delany (36*) stood tall. Needing seven runs in the final over and with just one wicket in hand, Delany kept her cool. A last-gasp leg bye sealed a thrilling win for Ireland with one ball to spare, sending Scotland out of the tournament with just two wins from five matches.

Despite Bryce’s brilliance, Scotland fell just short, while Ireland celebrated a famous win under intense pressure.