Dublin, Ireland – England Women produced a commanding performance in the opening match of their T20I series against Ireland Women, winning by 67 runs at Castle Avenue. Led by an explosive knock from Player of the Match Bryony Smith, England posted a challenging total of 176 all out, which proved too much for Ireland, who were bowled out for 109 in 18.3 overs.
Bryony Smith’s Power-Packed Fifty:
England’s opener Bryony Smith set the tone with a blistering 58 off 30 balls, striking 12 boundaries at an impressive strike rate of 193.33. Smith’s innings gave England the early momentum as she combined with Tammy Beaumont (27 off 23) to put on a solid opening partnership of 72.
Seren Smale added a quick 25 off 19 balls, but Ireland’s bowlers, particularly Freya Sargent (3/30) and Aimee Maguire (3/30), kept taking wickets to prevent England from running away with a massive total. Mady Villiers provided a late flourish with an impactful 35 off 15 balls, which took England to a strong total of 176 all out.
Ireland’s Struggle in the Chase:
Ireland’s chase got off to a poor start as they lost opener Amy Hunter (1) and captain Gaby Lewis (2) cheaply. While Orla Prendergast stood tall with an attacking 52 off 34 balls, her effort was a lone hand as the rest of the Irish batting order crumbled around her.
Issy Wong (2/14) and Charis Pavely (3/19) were the pick of the bowlers for England, with Pavely delivering key breakthroughs to dismantle the Irish middle order. Despite a late fight from Ava Canning (25 off 25), Ireland could only muster 109 before being bowled out in 18.3 overs.
Key Performers:
- England Women:
- Bryony Smith: 58 (30), 12x4s
- Mady Villiers: 35 (15) & 1/9 (2.3 overs)
- Charis Pavely: 3/19 (4 overs)
- Issy Wong: 2/14 (4 overs)
- Ireland Women:
- Orla Prendergast: 52 (34), 8x4s
- Ava Canning: 25 (25)
- Freya Sargent: 3/30 (4 overs)
- Aimee Maguire: 3/30 (4 overs)
Records and Notable Moments:
- Orla Prendergast‘s half-century was the only bright spot in Ireland’s innings, showcasing her ability to counterattack even as wickets fell around her.
- Bryony Smith‘s attacking knock provided the platform for England’s innings, while Mady Villiers‘ late onslaught ensured that the visitors posted a formidable total.
Brief Scores:
England Women: 176 all out in 20 overs (Bryony Smith 58, Mady Villiers 35, Freya Sargent 3/30)
Ireland Women: 109 all out in 18.3 overs (Orla Prendergast 52, Charis Pavely 3/19)
Result: England Women won by 67 runs
England Women now lead the 2-match series 1-0, with the next match set to be a crucial one for Ireland as they look to level the series.
