Ireland Women Clinch Series with Stunning 2-0 Lead After Defeating Sri Lanka in Thrilling Second ODI
New Delhi: In a dramatic twist, Ireland’s women’s cricket team has taken a commanding 2-0 lead in their ODI series against Sri Lanka, the reigning Women’s Asia Cup champions, following a spectacular performance on August 18, 2024. Despite missing their regular captain Laura Delany and stand-in captain Gaby Lewis, Ireland delivered a resilient and tactical display to secure the series victory.
Sri Lanka, winning the toss and choosing to bowl first, initially put Ireland under pressure as they quickly lost their openers to Achini Kulasuriya’s effective new-ball spell. Orla Prendergast, who had been instrumental in the first ODI, fell to Kavisha Dilhari, leaving Ireland at 77 for 3. However, Amy Hunter steadied the innings with a crucial 66 from 71 balls, creating a 57-run partnership with Leah Paul.
Even after Hunter’s dismissal, Leah Paul and Rebecca Stokell formed a pivotal 114-run stand for the fifth wicket. Paul’s impressive 81 off 101 balls and Stokell’s unbeaten 53 off 61 balls helped Ireland post a competitive total of 255.
Sri Lanka’s chase was significantly boosted by a maiden ODI century from Harshitha Samarawickrama, who joined Chamari Athapaththu and Vishmi Gunaratne—both of whom had made significant contributions in the previous ODI. However, Samarawickrama’s run out triggered a dramatic collapse, with Sri Lanka losing seven wickets for just 30 runs, including three in a single over from Arlene Kelly.
Kelly’s decisive spell, ending with figures of 3/41, played a crucial role in Ireland’s victory. The final ODI, set for August 20, will now offer Ireland the chance to complete a clean sweep and cap off a remarkable series.
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