England Women won by four wickets against Irish Women In the first ODI of the Ireland 2024 England Women’s tour at Stormont Civil Service Cricket Club. Kate Cross was a standout performer both with the ball and with his important contribution in England’s chase. His exceptional bowling display helped restrict Ireland to 210 and his vital 38 runs off 36 balls led England to victory.
Kate Cross casts a golden spell
After electing to bat first, Ireland women made a respectable total of 210 runs before being bowled in 46.5 overs. Orla Prendergast led Ireland’s innings, hitting an impressive 76 off 87 balls, including eight fours and a six. Amy Hunter also provided solid support with a well-made 37 off 45 balls Lea Paul Chipped with 33 off 54 balls.
Despite Prendergast’s efforts, Ireland struggled to form a consistent partnership as the England bowlers led by Cross, who produced sensational bowling, scoring six for 30 in 9.5 overs. His ability to swing the ball both ways and put constant pressure on the Irish kicks was key to England’s dominance. Cross overturned Ireland’s batting order and ensured they never gained momentum. His sharp, disciplined bowling was instrumental in restricting Ireland to a manageable total and laid the foundation for England’s successful chase.
Lauren Filer and Hannah Baker Ryana Macdonald-Guy also claimed the wicket to keep Ireland in check.
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Hollie Armitage takes Cross England home
Chasing 211, England Women suffered early setbacks as they lost the openers Emma Lamb (4) and Tammy Beaumont (10) cheap. However, Hollie Armitage steadied the innings with a well-paced 44 off 44 balls, hitting six boundaries. Paige Scholfield (31 off 33) and Freya Kemp (26 to 19) saved the scoreboard marking before Bess Heath (33 out of 37) struck a decisive blow in the middle order.
Cross proved his worth once again, this time with the bat, as he contributed significantly with 36 off 38 balls to help England reach the target in 4.1 overs. A quiet presence at the crease along with Cross’s support Maddy Villiers (13 off 14), despite some late pressure from Ireland’s bowlers, ensured England kept control of the chase.
Prendergast was the pick of the bowlers for Ireland, taking two wickets for 27 runs in six overs. Freya Sargent, Arlene Kellyand Aimee Maguire also took one wicket apiece, but it was not enough to prevent England from securing victory.
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This article was originally published here WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
