(Cricket news) A brilliant overall performance by Ireland Women’s skipper Laura Delany led her team to a win over the Netherlands in the second Group A clash of the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier at the Sunrise Sports Club in Harare today.

Delany struck 75 from 75 balls and claimed 1-24 from 10 overs in a skillful display of leadership and guile. Ireland’s longest-serving captain has reached a different level under head coach Ed Joyce and today demonstrated why she is still a lynchpin of the squad she has been part of for 11 years. She not only rescued Ireland out with the bat from a tricky situation of 85-5, but turned spinned webs with the ball and removed Babette de Leede – and to top off her performance, she inflicted two Dutch run outs. Delany was deservedly named Player of the Match.

After losing the toss put in to bat first for the second straight game in the tournament, Ireland’s openers Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul gave their team a good start again with their second consecutive fifty run opening stand. The left-hand / right-hand combination was used to great effect as the pair regularly turned the strike over and didn’t allow the Dutch bowlers to settle on a consistent line and length.

Lewis was the aggressor in the partnership, looking formidable as she pounced on anything over-pitched, finding the boundary seven times in her innings of 46 from 47 balls. However, after seeing off the Netherlands seamers with ease, Lewis dragged a long hop from leg-spinner Caroline de Lange straight to mid-wicket – slapping her pads with her bat out of frustration at what was her first false stroke of the day.

With the score on 61-1 in the 13th over, Ireland’s batters were seemingly well set to push on for a big score, but just as they did during the last match against the West Indies, the girls in green lost wickets in clusters – with four wickets tumbling in the next five overs and Ireland teetering on 85-5.

Needing some cool heads and patient batting to recover the situation, it was left to captain Delany and the experienced Eimear Richardson to lead the fightback. The pair batted decisively, running their ones and twos well, and finding the boundary regularly. Their 85-run sixth wicket partnership was broken by leg-spinner Silver Siegers, with Richardson (27) falling leg before trying to sweep a quicker delivery.

Also read: Indian bowlers left frustrated after failing to get a single wicket after 57 overs on day 2

Delany struck her third international half-century in the 50-over format from just 47 balls, and looked to push on further after the loss of Richardson. The skipper punched two boundaries through the covers and looked to be ready to accelerate further until she played around her pad to Siegers to also fall leg before for 75 off 75 balls.

Siegers then cleaned up the tail, finishing with figures of 4-24, and Ireland was all out for 199 in the 42nd over.

Orla Prendergast started well with the ball, removing opener Juliet Post with an in-swinger that knocked back the off stump, but Babette de Leede (34) and Sterre Kalis (47) stabilised the innings with a 59-run second-wicket stand. While the Dutch batting was cautious, the Irish bowlers couldn’t find a breakthrough until Delany introduced herself and soon had de Leede back in the pavilion, feathering a catch through to Mary Waldron.

Kalis found renewed support after the loss of de Leede with the aggressive Robine Rijke joining her for a 73-run stand for the third wicket – a partnership that seemed to swing the momentum firmly in the direction of the Dutch side.

Then, with the score on 139-2 in the 39th over, the Dutch stumbled and the Irish side pounced on their opportunity. In all, eight wickets fell for just 31 runs in just over eight overs. First, a slew of running mix-ups saw no less than three run outs, and then opening strike bowler Prendergast returned to the crease with renewed vigour and demolished the tail. The Pembroke pace bowler took 4-24 with all of her wickets bowled.

These were Prendergast’s first international wickets in the 50-over format, and couldn’t have come at a more important juncture with the game balanced on a knife edge.

Richardson wrapped up the Netherlands innings with her first wicket of the day, but the team performance - under the on-field leadership of Delany – stood out most impressively, and going into Monday’s final Group Stage match against Sri Lanka, head coach Ed Joyce will be pleased with the way his side handled the pressure and saw out today’s win.

Ireland’s next match is on Monday at the same venue against Sri Lanka.

MATCH SUMMARY  

Ireland Women v Netherlands Women, Women’s World Cup Qualifier, Sunrise Sports Club, 25 November 2021  

Ireland 199 (41.5 overs: L Delany 75, G Lewis 46, E Richardson 27; S Siegers 4-24)

Netherlands 170 (48 overs: R Rijke 56; O Prendergast 4-24, L Delany 1-24)  

Ireland Women won by 29 runs

(Cricket news) Ireland Women’s skipper Laura Delany said today that her team is determined to use yesterday’s loss against the West Indies as motivation for their qualifying campaign ahead of tomorrow’s crucial match against the Netherlands in the ICC Women’s World Cup Global Qualifier.

Despite a great start to the match yesterday, Ireland eventually lost to the Caribbean side by 6 wickets, however, they fought all the way demonstrating a never-say-die approach to their game.

Speaking from the team hotel, Delany said: “Gaby [Lewis] and Leah [Paul] started off well yesterday, which is pleasing to see their good form continue on from the Zimbabwe tour from last month. They put on some great partnerships during that series, and have batted well together at the Super series level over the last two years. It’s great to see that translate into international performances at this level, and I hope they continue to cement their roles in the team as our opening pair in this format.

“After the opening stand, we then lost a few wickets in quick succession. As a batting unit we know that we are capable of a lot more and, hopefully, we will display this over the next few days.

“I was delighted to have Eimear [Richardson] back in the side after she missed last month’s tour - she’s a very skilled player, and has a lot of experience, so it’s great to have her back around the group.

“Our bowling attack bowled well in the middle period, but we didn’t take early wickets in order to build pressure, and Deandra Dottin played incredibly well. We just didn’t have enough runs on the board, but I was pleased with how the bowlers acquitted themselves and how we took it into the 40th over.

“I said yesterday after the match, we know we haven’t played our best cricket yet, and there are two matches still to go, so we’re looking ahead to Netherlands tomorrow and Sri Lanka on Monday to show what we can do.”

All fixtures in the Qualifier tournament will be live streamed through www.icc.tv.

The ICC Women’s World Cup Global Qualifier Squad:

Laura Delany (captain), Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Louise Little, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Eimear Richardson, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.

Head coach: Ed Joyce
 
In addition, as part of Covid-19 protocols, the following players have been named as reserves: Sarah Forbes, Alana Dalzell and Kate McEvoy

Fixture schedule:

For the tournament proper, nine teams will compete for three places at the 2022 Women’s Cricket World Cup, set to be held in New Zealand (the tenth team, Papua New Guinea, withdrew and were not replaced in the draw).

Also read: India set out to seek revenge for the WTC final loss in 1st Test match against New Zealand

The Qualifier groups are:

Group A: West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Netherlands
Group B: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Zimbabwe, USA
 
As a consequence of the Papua New Guinea withdrawal, the playing schedule has been amended from previous advice. Ireland Women’s playing schedule is:

23 November: Ireland Women v West Indies Women (scorecard)

25 November: Ireland Women v Netherlands Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 2, Old Hararians Sports Club; start 9.30am)

29 November: Ireland Women v Sri Lanka Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 3, Sunrise Cricket Club; start 9.30am)
 
The top three teams from each group go to the Super 6 stage, with group stage points carrying over to the next phase. From there, the top three after the Super 6 stage will qualify for the Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 being held in New Zealand next year, along with the hosts, Australia, England, South Africa and India, who have directly qualified for the event.

As a bonus, the top five teams will also qualify for the next edition of the ICC Women's Championship, which is expanding from eight teams to 10.

The ICC will livestream the matches on ICC.tv, as well as live scoring and providing a range of digital content.

If successful, this will be the first time that Ireland Women have played in a 50-over Cricket World Cup since 2005.

(Cricket news) The Ireland women’s cricket team is set to face West Indies at their first World Cup qualifier today with captain Laura Delaney speaking about the build-up, state of the squad and her message to the team before the action begins. The 28 year old has been Ireland womens’ longest serving captain (since 2016) and recently played her 150th match for the country. She was also named the International Women’s Player of the Month for October by the ICC for her performances in the 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe.

Speaking after training at Sunrise Sports Club today, Delany said: “The Thailand warm-up game was used as a settling-in practice match – we batted eleven, but gave all of our bowlers a run through and all 15 players in the squad had an opportunity to field and begin to re-acclimate to conditions. It gave particularly our bowlers the opportunity to increase their workloads, so while the result wasn’t what we wanted, it wasn’t the focus for us that day – it was more about getting our processes right and giving everyone an opportunity early on.”

“The second game was a really good game against Pakistan – we would have liked 20-30 more runs. We dropped a few chances early on, but our bowlers bowled really well and attacked the stumps. The main thing was that it was an intensely competitive game, which is just what we were looking for ahead of our first game against the West Indies tomorrow.”

“My message for the squad is that this is a brilliant opportunity for us to show the world what we can do. We had a great series against Zimbabwe last month, and had some great performances in a few T20 series in the summer. We will be coming up against a few sides we haven’t played in a long time, but for the younger players it will be their first time up against the likes of West Indies and Sri Lanka. The players just need to focus on their processes and make sure we deliver on the field what we have been working on in training – then, if we do, the outcome will take care of itself. Enjoy it, focus on processes and work together as a team – if we do that, we can pull off a few results.”

“It goes without saying that we are going to play our strongest batting and bowling line-up in every game – however, the personnel may change from match-to-match depending on who we are playing against and the wickets we’ll play on.”

The Squad is as follows:

Laura Delany (captain), Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Louise Little, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Eimear Richardson, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.

Head coach: Ed Joyce

The Qualifier groups are:

Group A: West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Netherlands
Group B: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Zimbabwe, USA

As a consequence of the Papua New Guinea withdrawal, the playing schedule has been amended from previous advice. Ireland Women’s playing schedule is:

23 November: Ireland Women v West Indies Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 1, Old Hararians Sports Club; start 9.30am)

25 November: Ireland Women v Netherlands Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 2, Old Hararians Sports Club; start 9.30am)

29 November: Ireland Women v Sri Lanka Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 3, Sunrise Cricket Club; start 9.30am)

Also read: Three takeaways from the India vs New Zealand T20 series as they begin their 2022 T20 World Cup preparations

(Cricket news) A 15 player squad has been announced for Ireland Women’s participation at the Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe later this month. Laura Delaney is set to captain the side, having been named the ICC Player of the Month for October and Eimear Richardson (Player of the Tournament at the recent ICC Women’s T20 Europe Qualifier and ICC Women’s Player of the Month for August) will also return to the squad.

The squad is:

Laura Delany (captain), Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Louise Little, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Eimear Richardson, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron. Head coach: Ed Joyce

Carrie Archer, Chair of National Women’s selectors, said: “Over the last few years, the hard work of Ed Joyce and the Cricket Ireland support staff has made our job as selectors a tough one - there are so many talented, emerging players within the Irish game at the moment. As selectors, we've been delighted to follow the development and progression of this squad. Despite some players being unavailable to travel this month, the quality and depth of talent that we have to call upon means that our final travelling squad remains a strong unit.

“Our selection priority for this squad was to provide Ed and Laura [Delany] with a group of players that not only covered all facets of the game, but also offered experience playing in major tournaments. We are acutely aware that despite being a talented squad of players, five of those selected only made their ODI debuts on last month’s tour. The value of the senior players in the squad will be more than just in playing talent, but in their off-field support and guidance, sharing their knowledge and experience of tournament cricket. Tournaments see matches come thick and fast, and this brings its own challenges at this level. The ability to impart knowledge to the newer members of the squad is also an important consideration for our selection discussions.

“We wish the squad well and have confidence that they will do Ireland proud on the field over the coming weeks.”

Ed Joyce, Head Coach of Ireland Women, said: “It is great to see the squad finally confirmed – especially the return of Eimear Richardson to the set-up. Eimear is not only a talented all-rounder on the field, but is a role model with over 15 years international experience to call upon. You can’t put a price on experience, and she is always an asset to the squad both on and off the field, and we thank Northern Districts for releasing her to play in the Qualifier.”

“We saw in Zimbabwe last month the confidence that our batting and bowling units gained from spending time training and playing in Zimbabwean conditions – especially how to adapt to altitude and dealing with the challenges of touring life. The facilities were first-rate, and that tour, I believe, saw a number of our players prove to themselves that they belonged in international cricket.

“After last night’s training session it is clear to see that the players have a determination and clear focus on making this tournament count. We know our squad, we have our game plans in place – we just need to execute our skills on the field and, if we do, we will give a good account of ourselves against some of the world’s best teams.”

Also read: T20 World Cup: Australia defeat Pakistan by 5 wickets to progress into the finals

The official warm-up match will take place against Pakistan and Thailand with nine teams competing for three places at the 2022 Women’s Cricket World Cup.

The Qualifier groups are:

Group A: West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Netherlands
Group B: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Zimbabwe, USA

16 November: Ireland Women v Thailand Women (warm-up match, Old Georgians Sports Club; start 9.30am)

19 November: Ireland Women v Pakistan Women (warm-up match, Harare Sports Club; start 9.30am)

23 November: Ireland Women v West Indies Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 1, Old Hararians Sports Club; start 9.30am)

25 November: Ireland Women v Netherlands Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 2, Old Hararians Sports Club; start 9.30am)

29 November: Ireland Women v Sri Lanka Women (World Cup Qualifier Match 3, Sunrise Cricket Club; start 9.30am)

(Cricket news) On her 16th birthday, Ireland’s Amy Hunter hit an unbeaten maiden century and became the youngest cricketer (men or women) to score an international ton as Ireland Women claimed a 3-1 series victory over Zimbabwe in emphatic style.

The Belfast-born Hunter scored a near flawless 121* off 127 balls, which include 8 boundaries – her innings total bearing the highest individual score for Ireland Women by one run (Karen Young scored 120 v Pakistan in 2000).

However, it was not just Hunter that achieved records and milestones today – the Ireland Women’s total of 312-3 in 50 overs was their highest-ever ODI total, Gaby Lewis continued her great run of form hitting a third consecutive half-century of the series, and both captain Laura Delany and wicketkeeper Mary Waldron played in their 150th international match for Ireland (across all formats).

The 3-1 series win was also Ireland Women’s first-ever bilateral ODI series win on foreign soil.

Earlier in the day, captain Delany lost her fourth toss of the series and Ireland was put into bat first. This turned out to be a decision that Zimbabwe would regret.

Lewis and opening partner Paul – who together had scored consecutive century opening stands prior to today – again looked solid in a 40-run partnership, before Paul was bowled for 12.

Lewis and Hunter then put on 104 for the second wicket. Lewis the aggressor of the pair struck 78 from 87 balls (her third straight half-century of the series) before falling to a diving caught & bowled by Loryn Phiri (1-51). Lewis had an outstanding series with the bat finishing top run-scorer with 263 runs at an average of 87.67.

That brought captain Delany to join Hunter at the crease and the pair mounted an assault on the home bowlers. Their 143-run third wicket stand came off just 115 balls with Delany hitting 68 from 53 balls, and Hunter registering her maiden international century off 110 balls. While Delany was impressive with her stroke play and power, Hunter rotated the strike regularly - the 45 singles and 16 twos she registered a testament to her ability to pace her innings well and compile runs with ease.

Also read: Should Indian Women be happy with their performance in Australia?

Orla Prendergast (12 off 10 balls) and Hunter struck 25 off the final three overs and carried Ireland Women’s total to 312-3 after their 50 overs.

In response, the Zimbabwean innings got off to a bad start losing Modester Mupachikwa for 2 in the second over, and while the partnering of Ashley Ndiraya (38) and Josephine Nkomo (66) mounted a 96-run second-wicket stand, the home side never looked in the hunt.

Ireland’s bowlers impressed again on what looked a batter-friendly pitch - Jane Maguire (1-24), Cara Murray (1-33) and Celeste Raack (1-24) made key breakthroughs, while impressive spells from Delany (2-32) and Sophie MacMahon (2-44) ensured the Zimbabwe batters found it hard to score freely.

The hosts eventually finished on 227-8 after their 50 overs, with Ireland claiming the match today by 85 runs and the series 3-1.

MATCH SUMMARY  

Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women ODI Series, 4th ODI, Harare Sports Club, 11 October 2021  

Ireland 312-3 (50 overs: A Hunter 121*, G Lewis 78, L Delany 68; J Nkomo 1-45)

Zimbabwe 227-8 (50 overs: J Nkomo 66, A Ndiraya 38; L Delany 2-32, S MacMahon 2-44) 

Ireland won by 85 runs (Ireland won series 3-1)

(Cricket news) Ireland Women’s new One-Day international opening pair Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul are not so new to each other and it’s the strong bond they formed at the domestic level that is now reflecting on the international stage as Ireland look for a series victory.

With Ireland Women so close to winning their first bilateral W-ODI series on foreign soil when they take on Zimbabwe tomorrow morning, one of the biggest positives to take from the series so far has been the opening partnership that has been formed at international level between Lewis and Paul. The pair have got partnerships of 28, 135 and 145 in the three matches on this tour – the latter two respectively being the fourth-highest and second-highest opening stands in the history of ODI cricket for Ireland Women.

However, while the openers are new at the international level, right-handed Lewis and left-handed Paul have built their batting relationship at the domestic Super Series level, most notably in the ODI Cup format.

In 2020, Paul (295 runs at an average of 49.17) and Lewis (249 runs at an average of 35.57) led the Scorchers from the top to finish first and second respectively in the competition's run scoring department. While Paul had a more circumspect season in 2021 (85 runs at 17.00), Lewis struck 332 runs at 66.40. Despite the discrepancy in individual scores, the pair's contributions at the top of the order proved valuable to their team with partnerships of 74, 106 and 87 in three of the five completed matches.

Also read: Australia whitewash India in W-T20I series; comfortably winning multi-format series

As a result, close observers of Ireland's game won’t be surprised by the successful partnership between the 20-year old Lewis and 22-year old Paul in this series – but will be pleased that the potential they offer is now being recognised on the big stage.

On the tour to date, Lewis has struck scores of 24, 65 and 96* (185 runs at 92.50), while Paul has registered scores of 13, 95 and 63 (171 runs at 57.00).

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s fourth and final match of the current ODI series, Lewis said: “I absolutely love batting with Leah - we haven't really batted with each other at the international level before, but we have built up a strong bond during the Super Series - so to carry that through has been great. We know each other’s roles well and seem to complement each other.”

“Pauly has been brilliant on this tour so far - she's really shown what a good player she is and what a confident player she has become. We have built trust in each other and that's what really helped us form the opening partnership we have - and hopefully will continue to do in the long run.”

“The batting conditions out here have been quite nice and the pitches pretty good. The first two matches seemed to have been played on new pitches, but yesterday's was cracking a little and turning a bit more. The Zimbabwean spinners got a bit of turn out of them, but we played them well and just waited for those over-pitched balls to hit.”

“Conditions haven’t meant a need to change my game much, just the heat and fatigue means you have to concentrate that little bit more. Obviously in T20 cricket I would typically play more aggressively and look for runs, but in this longer format I have been more patient and trusting of my instincts - playing each ball as it comes and sticking to my processes - which seems to have worked well for me so far.”

Paul added: “It’s also been great to have a coach like Ed Joyce to work with - his knowledge and experience has been invaluable and he gives the batting unit a lot of confidence going into matches like these.”

“It was nice to spend some time in the middle – especially with Gaby - and contribute some runs to a couple of team wins. We were so disappointed with how we bowled and fielded in the first game, so it was great to bounce back and put on a solid performance in the next two games. The challenge of opening the bowling in the longer format has also been a challenge, but one I’m enjoying greatly.”

The final ODI between Ireland Women and Zimbabwe Women starts at 9.30am (Harare time) tomorrow and will be available to watch via Zimbabwe Cricket’s YouTube channel.
 
THE SQUAD

Laura Delany (captain), Zara Craig, Georgina Dempsey, Sarah Forbes, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.

THE FIXTURES

5 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 1st ODI 
7 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 2nd ODI 
9 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 3rd ODI 
11 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 4th ODI (Harare Sports Club)

(Cricket news) The Ireland Women’s Cricket team have arrived in Zimbabwe to begin a four-match One-Day International series. Shauna Kavanagh has amassed 90 caps for Ireland was forced to miss out on the recent ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier but has now recovered and is raring to go.

In a press release by Cricket Ireland, Kavanagh said “Zimbabwe is a great place to play cricket and the welcome has been brilliant. A few players in the squad have been here before so know what to expect, but for most, it’s a new experience.”

“We have been training at Harare Sports Club, which is where we will play all four games, and the facilities are great. We have had access to everything we need to make sure we’re as well prepared as we can be.”

“Personally, I have positive memories of playing cricket here in Zimbabwe, and that will certainly give me confidence heading into this series. It was very tough missing out on the T20 World Cup Europe qualifiers in La Manga at the end of August, so I am really excited to be playing cricket again - and hopefully spending lots of time in the middle.”

“Conditions have been great, and they look good wickets that we’ll be playing on. It’s warm - around 25-30 degrees – but that’s a nice temperature to be playing cricket in.”

“Everyone in the squad has recovered from the travel here and are fit and ready to go, which is brilliant as it means we have all 15 players to select from. Every one of us knows that this series is an opportunity to put their hand up and contend for a spot in the World Cup qualifying squad next month.”

THE SQUAD

Laura Delany (captain), Zara Craig, Georgina Dempsey, Sarah Forbes, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.

THE FIXTURES

5 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 1st ODI (Harare Sports Club)
7 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 2nd ODI (Harare Sports Club)
9 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 3rd ODI (Harare Sports Club)
11 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 4th ODI (Harare Sports Club)

Also read: Ireland cricketer Ben White enjoying cricket preparations ahead of Men’s T20 World Cup

(Cricket news) Ireland women’s cricket team is set to travel to Zimbabwe to participate in a four match One Day International series next month and selectors have announced a 15 player squad for the tour.

The tour comes just before the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Global Qualifier that will be held in Zimbabwe in November and the four ODI’s will give the Irish women’s cricket team an opportunity to experience the local conditions before the tournament.

Zimbabwe Women’s cricket team recently won the ICC T20 World Cup African Qualifier, advancing to the Global Qualifier in 2022. Having finished second in the European equivalent of the tournament, Ireland women’s cricket team will be hoping to receive confirmation of progress as well.

THE SQUAD

Laura Delany (captain), Zara Craig, Georgina Dempsey, Sarah Forbes, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.

THE FIXTURES

5 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 1st ODI (Harare Sports Club)
7 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 2nd ODI (Harare Sports Club)
9 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 3rd ODI (Harare Sports Club)
11 October 2021: Zimbabwe Women v Ireland Women – 4th ODI (Harare Sports Club)
 
Ireland Women’s Head Coach Ed Joyce said: “This tour will be an important part of our build-up to next month’s World Cup Qualifier, and will provide the squad with an excellent opportunity to experience playing conditions in Zimbabwe and at a key host venue as part of that Qualifier.”

“Our focus in recent months has been predominantly T20 cricket, so these fixtures are even more valuable to the players as a means of resetting their approach to take on the longer format of the game.”

“Several of the players in the squad were part of the 2018 side that toured Zimbabwe – and while that series suffered due to numerous rain-outs, the competitiveness and quality of both sides were tested, and we expect that this series will be no different.”

Also read: Heather Knight’s century guides England women to series win against New Zealand

(Cricket news) The Scorchers win both games at Oak Hill to clinch the Super Series title, in the second game the Typhoons put up a great fight which resulted in this year’s first Super Series Super Over.

The Typhoons won the toss and elected to bat first beneath overcast skies in the first game of today’s doubleheader at Oak Hill in Co. Wicklow,

The batting side may have been ruing their decision after the first powerplay as they found themselves 3 wickets down for just 17 runs. Hannah Little (2-9) and Eimear Richardson (2-23) were the pick of the bowlers.

Georgina Dempsey came in at number 6 and started to counter-attack. Dempsey hit three boundaries of Cara Murray's over. Her quick fire 35 off just 31 balls got her side closer to a respectable total, but her run out once agains swung things in the Scorchers favour as the Typhoons were once more struggling at 60-7 in the 14th over. 

Also read: Got my rhythm back playing ODI series against Sri Lanka: Skipper Joe Root  

The Typhoons scored 36 runs in the last five overs, the target of 97 didn't look enough against a talented Scorchers line-up.

The Typhoons picked up the big wicket of Gaby Lewis early after Lewis dragged her first ball onto her stumps and Eimear Richardson was soon dismissed for 7. Scorchers were 30-2 at the end of the power play, opener Leah Paul looked to anchor the innings with her confident stroke play. 

Paul, who scored 63* in the last Super 20 match, scored an unbeaten 44 from 55 balls, hitting four boundaries in the process. Lara Maritz (29 from 23) provided significant support, the pair took the game away from the Typhoons who managed to get over the line with a comfortable 7 wicket win in the first game of the day. 

The second game of the day saw a very similar outcome in terms of the toss with the Typhoons winning again and electing to bat first. While the side in Blue batted better than they did in the earlier innings, it was still an innings of frustration with the majority of the Typhoons top order getting to double figures, but no one to convert it into a big innings. They finished their innings at 111-8 thanks to Georgina Dempsey, who scored 28 from 23 balls in the second game to follow her 35 from 31 balls in Game One.

The pitch was inconsistent in its bounce but the Scorchers bowlers held a good line and length. Ashlee King (2-21) and Cara Murray (2-27) in particular were impressive with the ball.

In the response, however, the Scorchers struggled initially courtesy of a fantastic opening spell from Jane Maguire as she picked 2-3 off her first two overs. With the Scorchers on 31-2 after the powerplay, Gaby Lewis (50) and Shauna Kavanagh (32*) put together 65 runs and  Scorchers were once again in a strong position to win. Georgina Dempsey (1-14) and Ava Canning (1-19) bowled impressively at the death to lead the comeback for the Typhoons, meaning the Scorchers had to get 5 off the last over.

A tense and tight final over from Dempsey, which included Kavanagh being dropped on the 5th ball, ultimately led to a tie in the scores leading to the first Super Over of the Super Series season.

Gaby Lewis scored an impressive 19 runs from five balls, with Eimear Richardson striking the last ball to the boundary. The Typhoons were always on the back foot from there, losing two wickets and conceding the match on the second last ball.

Lewis was named Player of the Match for her half-century in the match followed by a devastating 19 in the Super Over. 

MATCH SUMMARY 

Scorchers v Typhoons, 3rd Match Arachas Super 20 Trophy, Oak Hill, 8 August 2021 

Typhoons 96-9 (20 overs; G Dempsey 35: H Little 2-9, E Richardson 2-23) 

Scorchers 99-3 (18.2 overs; A Canning 1-19: L Paul 44, L Maritz 29) 

Scorchers won by 7 Wickets

DUBLIN – Cricket Ireland on Wednesday announced that bowler Ava Canning has been handed a non-retainer contract and has joined the senior women’s performance squad.

The 17 year old made her international debut in the first T20I against Scotland, last month. She represents the Typhoons in the Arachas Super Series and Leinster Cricket Club at club level – a clubmate of Irish skipper Laura Delany.

Canning, in the recent international series took three wickets. She had the second-best economy rate of the series - 4.15 runs/over and claimed her wickets with an average of 18.00 with her dot ball percentage also being the second-best for either team at 66.67.

Ava Canning said: “I was delighted to be selected for the senior squad and to make my debut, especially in a home series. I’ve worked very hard on my game since my injury last year. Being given the chance to play for Ireland was so rewarding and the team couldn’t have been more supportive throughout the series. I was quite nervous going into that first game, but taking a wicket early in the game was the dream start for me. It really helped to calm my nerves and allow me to relax into the rest of the game.”

“It’s now very exciting to receive the offer of a place on the senior performance squad, as the training and support from the coaches will be great to experience. I think it’s a brilliant opportunity to help improve my game and allow me to spend more time training and playing with the other squad members.”

Carrie Archer, Chair of National Women’s Selectors, said: “Ava has been on our radar for a couple of years, but unfortunately had a full season out last year with injury. She has impressed greatly on her return to fitness in both the Arachas Super Series and during the four T20 Internationals against Scotland recently. Her accuracy and control, combined with the swing she can create with a new ball, has made life difficult for numerous batters, and we felt she was ready to take that step up within the system. We wish Ava well in what will be a big year for women’s cricket in Ireland.”

Senior Performance Squad - 2021

Part-time retainer contracts

Laura Delany

Shauna Kavanagh

Mary Waldron

Gaby Lewis

Celeste Raack

Orla Prendergast

Leah Paul

Non-retainer contracts

Eimear Richardson

Lara Maritz

Hannah Little

Louise Little

Rebecca Stokell

Una Raymond-Hoey

Sophie MacMahon

Cara Murray

Georgina Dempsey

Rachel Delaney

Jane Maguire

Amy Hunter

Ava Canning
 

DUBLIN – Scorchers captain Gaby Lewis's maiden century led her side to the Arachas Super 50 Cup title after defeating the Typhoons by 140 runs at Malahide Cricket Club.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Player of the Match Lewis continued her purple patch from last week's international outing and brought up her half-century from 47 balls, and her first century at this level from 109 balls. Lewis hit 15 boundaries in her innings of 115, hitting shots all around the ground. 

This was the fifth century in the history of the Cup after Meg Kendal (125), Cecelia Joyce (118), Clare Shillington (116) and Orla Prendergast's 116 which he scored three weeks ago at Rush.

Lewis received decent support throughout, first from Leah Paul (29) whom she shared a 106-run opening partnership with, following a 74-run stand with Shauna Kavanagh (34). Sophie MacMahon played an unbeaten cameo of 31 at the end of the innings, as the Scorchers finished on 271-5 from their 50 overs.

For the Typhoons, five bowlers claimed a wicket each, while Jane Maguire’s spell of 0-26 from 7 overs was brilliant in terms of her ability to restrict the run rate and bring in a few moments of nervousness for the batters.

In reply, the Typhoons lost the wicket of Rebecca Stokell in the first over, but despite a 75-run second wicket partnership between Louise Little (34) and Rachel Delaney (41) the team struggled throughout the run chase. Delaney batted well, but with her team in need of an acceleration in the scoreline, her steady inning came to an end holding out at mid off.

Orla Prendergast contributed late runs – her 26 off 23 balls featured three fours and a stunning six over the deep cover boundary – but the Typhoons lower order disappointed, losing 6-7 in just under three overs to be skittled out for 131.

Leading wicket-takers for the Scorchers were Lara Maritz (3-10) and Cara Murray (3-16). Leah Paul (2-38) also continued her bowling form from the recent Scotland T20I series where she picked 9 wickets at a brilliant average of 4.44.

The Scorchers' dominating 140-run victory has essentially handed them the 2021 Arachas Super 50 Cup title as they lead the competition 3-1 with one game to play.

MATCH SUMMARY

Scorchers v Typhoons, 5th Match Arachas Super 50 Cup, Malahide, 30 May 2021

Scorchers 271-5 (50 overs; G Lewis 115, S Kavanagh 34; Z Craig 1-9)

Typhoons 131 (31.3 overs; R Delaney 41; L Maritz 3-10, C Murray 3-16, L Paul 2-38)

Scorchers won by 140 runs

Ireland’s Orla Prendergast will end her 624 day wait when she dons her Irish jersey against Scotland’s Women on sunday. In her absence, Ireland’s women have had four tours and series cancelled and a world cup qualifier postponed.

Prendergast made her international debut in August 2019 and the all-rounder has eight caps so far. She was awarded a part time player contract by Cricket Ireland in August 2020. She scored 151 runs at an average of 25.17 in the 2020 Super Series along with taking 10 wickets at 18 runs apiece.

Her form was described as “outstanding” by Ireland womens captain Laura Delaney and scored a maiden century two weeks ago, scoring 116 runs from 129 balls and taking 2-17 in the same match. 

Ahead of the Scotland series, Prendergast said “It’s absolutely brilliant to finally be back playing international cricket and definitely an added bonus to have our first home fixture in two years. The possibility of spectators being allowed to attend is a really exciting prospect and hopefully, all going well that will be able to happen. We’ve had a long training block over the last 18 months, so it’s really exciting to be able to compete again and see where we are.”

“The Super Series this year has provided an excellent opportunity for us to prepare for the upcoming series. While we’ve obviously been extremely lucky to continue training over the last months, it’s been vital for us to get time out batting and bowling in the middle to prepare for upcoming international matches. Personally, I feel the Super Series has really helped me prepare for the upcoming series, both bowling and batting. The century I scored two weeks ago has definitely boosted my confidence, and hopefully I’ll carry some of that form through to the Scotland series.”

“Being without international cricket for a long period has left me with a lot of time to work on things that I wouldn’t have wanted to change if I had upcoming matches. I’ve been working on my bowling action and consistency a lot, and also my game plan with the bat.”

“The part-time retainer contract has also been a welcome opportunity. Having extra coaching contact time with Ed [Joyce] and Glenn [Querl] has really helped me further my game already, and it’ll be great to have some matches to test my skills again.”

“With regard to the Scotland series, I’m expecting some high standard and very close games. The two sides look quite evenly matched, so I’m looking forward to seeing how the series plays out. In relation to my own specific goals, I don’t really have any. Obviously, I’m hoping to take wickets and make some runs, but my main focus is just on helping the team win.”

SQUADS FOR THE SERIES

Ireland Women:

Laura Delany (capt), Ava Canning, Rachel Delaney, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Jane Maguire, Lara Maritz, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Jenny Sparrow, Rebecca Stokell.

Scotland Women:

Kathryn Bryce (capt), Sarah Bryce, Becky Glen, Lorna Jack, Abbi Aitken-Drummond, Ikra Farooq, Abtaha Maqsood, Samantha Haggo, Katie Mcgill, Priyanaz Chatterji, Ailsa Lister, Katherine Fraser, Ellen Watson, Megan McColl.

SERIES FIXTURES

The fixtures in the Celtic International T20 Challenge Series are:

23 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 1st T20I (Stormont, starting 1pm)
24 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 2nd T20I (Stormont, starting 1pm)
26 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 3rd T20I (Stormont, starting 1pm)
27 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 4th T20I (Stormont, starting 11am)

Cricket Ireland’s match centre will livestream and livescore the matches and capped and controlled crowds are expected at games 2,3 and 4. 
 

DUBLIN – Cricket Ireland on Wednesday announced a 15 player Ireland Women’s squad for the upcoming T20 International series against Scotland at Stormont. The series will feature four T20I matches between 23-27 May 2021.

The Ireland side will be led by Laura Delany who is returning after an injury. The squad features five such players who will be bidding to make their international debuts. Cara Murray and Rachel Delaney will also make their respective comebacks to the international squad after featuring in their last international match in June 2018.

Ireland and Scotland have met fourteen times in women’s T20Is, with Ireland winning in 11 outings, Scotland winning twice and one with no result. However, the two teams met twice in 2019, clinching a one victory each.

The squad is:

Laura Delany (capt), Ava Canning, Rachel Delaney, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Jane Maguire, Lara Maritz, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Jenny Sparrow, Rebecca Stokell.

The series will be played as follows:

23 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 1st T20I (Stormont, starting 2pm)

24 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 2nd T20I (Stormont, starting 2pm)

25 May 2021: Reserve Day (1st & 2nd T20I’s, 2pm start)

26 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 3rd T20I (Stormont, starting 2pm)

27 May 2021: Ireland Women v Scotland Women - 4th T20I (Stormont, starting 11am)

The games will be livestreamed and livescored through the Cricket Ireland match centre. Spectators won't be currently permitted at games in Northern Ireland due current government restrictions.

Carrie Archer, Chair of National Women’s Selectors, said: “There is great anticipation to see how this young side will perform, given the exceptional performances in the Arachas Super Series over recent weeks. With an average age of less than 21, it is one of the youngest squads we have ever selected, but one full of talent and potential. With a big year ahead, it is vital that these players get as much competitive cricket as they can, and I have no doubt they will require little additional motivation to perform in this long-awaited return to the international arena.”

“With a number of players still overseas and unavailable, there is an opportunity now for several emerging players to make their mark ahead of the two world cup qualifier tournaments later in the year.”

“We have selected five players who may make their debuts. They are all here on merit, after impressing in the Super Series, and should take the confidence of knowing this into the series.”

Ed Joyce, Head Coach of Ireland Women, said: “We’ll be going into the Scotland series off the back of a solid build-up in training and a competitive Super Series to date. It’s great to see players being rewarded for their performances in the Super Series - it goes to show all players that there is a defined pathway to international cricket and that performances are being recognised with higher honours. There is no doubt that international cricket is yet another step up for the players, but I know that all of those selected are desperate to get out there and show what they can do on the world stage.”

According to a press release by Cricket Ireland, the selectors on Monday confirmed several squad changes before the first game of the 7th women’s Super Series, which is set to kick start from Sunday, 25th April at Pembroke Cricket Club.

The squad changes have been forced owing to injury or player unavailability. Also, several players are yet to return from overseas and will join the teams after they land back in Ireland.

The venues have also been confirmed for Super 50 Cup fixtures, however a number of Super 20 Trophy venues are yet to be finalised.

SQUADS

Typhoons: Laura Delany (captain), Ava Canning, Zara Craig, Rachel Delaney, Georgina Dempsey, Sarah Forbes, Rebecca Gough, Amy Hunter, Louise Little, Jane Maguire, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Freya Sargent, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.

Scorchers: Gaby Lewis (captain), Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Shauna Kavanagh, Anna Kerrison, Maria Kerrison, Ashlee King, Hannah Little, Sophie MacMahon, Lara Maritz, Naomi Matthews, Caoimhe McCann, Kate McEvoy, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Una Raymond-Hoey, Jenny Sparrow.

Fixtures



Carrie Archer, Chair of National Women’s Selectors, said: “It’s great to know that the Super Series will be underway shortly, and to know the senior squad will have a busy year – both domestically and with two separate world cup qualifying tournaments. Indeed, with those two tournaments on the near horizon, competition amongst the players during the Super Series will be keener than ever with places up for grabs on those squads.”

“We have a number of minor selection adjustments that were forced upon us through injury and unavailability, but both the Scorchers and Typhoons squads are full of talent. We had such a great series last year, and with the return of senior internationals to the competition like Lara Maritz and Mary Waldron, the 2021 series promises to be the most anticipated in the competitions seven year history.”