The Pakistan women’s cricket team wrapped up their T20I series against Ireland on a high note, securing an emphatic eight-wicket win in the third and final match at Clontarf Cricket Club Ground on Sunday. The star of the day was wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali, whose brilliant century not only guided her side to victory but also cemented her name in the record books.
Ireland Sets a Competitive Target
Opting to bat first, Ireland posted a competitive 155-4 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Orla Prendergast, who played a superb unbeaten knock of 64 runs from just 46 balls, laced with eight boundaries.
Her innings received early support from opener Amy Hunter, who contributed 29 runs off 33 deliveries, including three boundaries and a six. The duo stitched together a valuable 50-run opening partnership, providing Ireland with a steady platform.
Skipper Gaby Lewis added quick runs in the middle overs, smashing 36 off 22 balls with eight boundaries. However, middle-order batters Leah Paul (11) and Rebecca Stokell (5) failed to make a significant impact. Laura Delany finished unbeaten on 5 off 2 deliveries.
For the Pakistan women’s cricket team, the bowling duties were shared evenly. Fatima Sana, Sadia Iqbal, Waheeda Akhtar, and Rameen Shamim each picked up one wicket, restricting Ireland from crossing the 160-run mark.
Early Setbacks in Pakistan’s Chase
Chasing 156, the Pakistan women’s cricket team did not get off to the best start. Shawaal Zulfiqar was dismissed for just 3, while Natalia Pervaiz fell for 9, leaving Pakistan in a slightly tricky position.
However, what followed was a batting masterclass. Muneeba Ali, already known for her elegant stroke play, took control of the chase alongside Aliya Riaz.
Muneeba Ali’s Record-Breaking Century
Muneeba Ali’s innings will be remembered as one of the finest in Pakistan women’s cricket team history. She scored an unbeaten 100 off 68 balls, peppering the field with 14 boundaries and one six. With this knock, she became the only Pakistani woman cricketer to score two centuries in T20I cricket, showcasing both consistency and class.
Aliya Riaz played the perfect supporting role, scoring an unbeaten 39 off 27 balls, which included five well-timed boundaries. Their partnership of 101 runs for the third wicket sealed the match in Pakistan’s favor, with the team reaching the target in just 17.4 overs.
Ireland’s bowling attack, led by Ava Canning and Lara McBride, managed one wicket each but struggled to contain the fluent batting of Pakistan’s middle order.
Ireland Wins the Series Despite Final Loss
While the Pakistan women’s cricket team ended the series on a winning note, Ireland took the overall series 2-1. Their victories in the earlier matches ensured they clinched the T20I trophy, but Pakistan’s dominant win in the final game showed their ability to bounce back strongly.
Statistical Highlights of the Match
- Highest Individual Score: Muneeba Ali – 100* (68 balls, 14 fours, 1 six)
- Best Bowling Figures for Pakistan: Fatima Sana, Sadia Iqbal, Waheeda Akhtar, Rameen Shamim – 1 wicket each
- Top Irish Performer: Orla Prendergast – 64* (46 balls, 8 fours)
- Winning Margin: Pakistan women’s cricket team won by 8 wickets
According to ICC women’s T20I rankings (as of 2024), Pakistan sits mid-table but performances like these hint at their potential to climb higher.
Significance of the Win for Pakistan Women’s Cricket
This victory was not just about ending the series with pride — it was also a confidence boost ahead of upcoming fixtures. Muneeba Ali’s century showcased Pakistan’s batting depth, while the team’s bowlers demonstrated discipline in keeping Ireland within reach.
For the Pakistan women’s cricket team, consistent performances like this are essential to closing the gap with the top-ranked nations. With several young players making their mark, the future looks promising.
The Pakistan women’s cricket team will now focus on their next international assignments, carrying forward the momentum from this win. Muneeba Ali’s record-breaking feat will inspire not only her teammates but also aspiring cricketers back home.
Ireland, despite the loss, can take pride in their overall series win and the form of key players like Prendergast and Lewis.
The third T20I between Pakistan and Ireland was a showcase of determination, skill, and cricketing excellence. While the series belonged to Ireland, the final match was undoubtedly Pakistan’s day — led by a historic Muneeba Ali century and a solid team performance.
As the Pakistan women’s cricket team looks ahead to future challenges, this victory serves as a reminder of their capability to turn the tables and produce match-winning performances when it matters most.
