ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2024 Day 1: Sri Lanka and Ireland Off to a Strong Start

Day 1 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2024 saw Ireland and Sri Lanka making a strong start. Eimear Richardson of Ireland shone with her all-round performance against UAE, while Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated the field, bowling Thailand out for 55 at the Tolerance Oval.

Ireland vs UAE

Ireland 106/4 (16.1 overs) beat UAE 105/9 (20 overs)

Toss: Ireland chose to bowl first

Match Summary

Esha Oza of UAE started strong with an onslaught on Alana Dalzell in the second over. However, Dalzell had the last laugh when she dismissed the opener off the final ball of the over. Theertha Satish and Khushi Sharma then built a solid partnership for UAE, but Ireland made a spirited comeback, causing the UAE innings to unravel quickly.

Despite a promising start, UAE could only manage 105/9 in 20 overs. Arlene Kelly and Richardson were the standout bowlers for Ireland, each taking two wickets. In response, Ireland’s Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis got off to a flying start, smashing 52 in the Powerplay. Despite a minor stumble, Ireland comfortably reached the target with more than three overs to spare, marking a winning start to their campaign.

Sri Lanka vs Thailand

Sri Lanka 122/5 (20 overs) beat Thailand 55 (16.2 overs)

Toss: Sri Lanka chose to bat first

Match Summary

Sri Lanka, one of the tournament favourites, were restricted to 122/5 in 20 overs by a disciplined Thai bowling performance. Despite a slow start, Sri Lanka managed to post a competitive total, thanks to a crucial stand between Nilakshi de Silva and Anushka Sanjeewani.

In response, Thailand struggled against Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, with only one batter reaching double digits. Udeshika Prabodhani and Inoshi Priyadharshani led the charge, helping Sri Lanka reduce Thailand to 40/5. The situation worsened for Thailand as they were eventually bowled out for 55, marking a winning start for Sri Lanka.