Pakistan Women suffered a seven-wicket defeat against Ireland Women in the third match of the Women’s T20I Tri-Series at Castle Avenue, Dublin, despite posting an imposing total of 176/6 on Sunday.
The result handed Ireland a valuable victory in the tournament, while Pakistan will now shift their focus to a crucial encounter against the West Indies on June 3.
Muneeba Leads Pakistan’s Strong Batting Display
After winning the toss, Pakistan elected to bat first and made an encouraging start. Opener and wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali anchored the innings with a brilliant 65 off just 41 deliveries, striking eight fours and three sixes.
She received solid support from Gull Feroza, who played an aggressive knock of 32 from only 15 balls. The pair added 44 runs for the opening wicket, setting the tone for Pakistan’s innings.
Following the dismissal of Ayesha Zafar, Muneeba combined with Saira Jabeen in a crucial 88-run partnership for the third wicket. Saira contributed a composed 36 off 33 balls, finding the boundary four times.
Pakistan looked set for a score well beyond 180 before losing wickets in the closing stages. Captain Fatima Sana added a useful 21 off 14 deliveries, helping her side finish with a competitive 176/6.
For Ireland, Ava Canning was the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets.
Ireland’s Top Order Delivers Under Pressure
Chasing 177, Ireland showed remarkable composure and kept pace with the required rate throughout the innings.
Opener Amy Hunter laid the foundation with an impressive 56 from 44 balls, including seven fours and a six. She first shared a 44-run opening stand with Alana Dalzell before adding another 51 runs alongside Rebecca Stokell.
Stokell emerged as the match-winner, remaining unbeaten on 60 from 42 deliveries with seven boundaries. Her calm approach ensured Ireland stayed in control during the chase.
The turning point came through a rapid 77-run third-wicket partnership between Stokell and captain Orla Prendergast, who blasted 33 off only 17 balls.
Their attacking stand shifted momentum firmly in Ireland’s favour and brought the hosts within touching distance of victory.
Although Ayesha Zafar impressed with figures of 2 for 24 and removed both Hunter and Prendergast, Pakistan could not halt Ireland’s charge as the hosts reached the target with five balls to spare, sealing a memorable triumph in Dublin.
