Pakistan starts Women’s World Cup Qualifiers with win over Ireland

Pakistan began their ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2025 campaign on a high note, defeating Ireland by 38 runs at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday.

Set a target of 218, Ireland looked competitive at one point but faltered under pressure, ultimately getting bowled out for 179 in 44 overs.

Diana Baig led the bowling attack with impressive figures of 4 for 35, while left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu claimed 3 for 41. They were well supported by Sadia Iqbal, who chipped in with two crucial wickets for 33 runs.

Earlier, after being asked to bat first in sweltering heat, Pakistan posted 217 all out in 49 overs.

The foundation of the innings was laid by the experienced duo of Sidra Amin and Aliya Riaz.

Sidra scored a patient 51 off 112 balls, featuring three boundaries, while Aliya added a brisk 52 from 58 balls, including a six and four fours. Their 72-run third-wicket stand proved vital in giving Pakistan a competitive total.

The innings had begun shakily with debutant Gull Feroza falling early for 4. But Sidra and Muneeba Ali stabilized the innings with a 77-run partnership for the second wicket. Muneeba contributed 32 runs, striking four boundaries in her 59-ball stay before being dismissed by Jane Maguire.

Sidra continued to anchor the innings and found another solid partner in Aliya Riaz. However, Pakistan’s momentum was disrupted when Sidra was trapped lbw by leg-spinner Cara Murray. Following her dismissal, the batting side struggled to maintain partnerships and kept losing wickets regularly. Aliya was soon dismissed by Murray as well, after completing her eighth ODI fifty.

Skipper Fatima Sana added a quick-fire 19 off 15 balls, hitting four boundaries, before becoming Maguire’s third victim.

Maguire starred with the ball for Ireland, recording her career-best figures of 3 for 33 in 10 overs. Cara Murray (2 for 19) and Arlene Kelly (2 for 34) also bowled efficiently.

In response, Ireland suffered an early blow with Sarah Forbes departing for 9. However, Gabby Lewis (44) and wicketkeeper Amy Hunter (44) steadied the innings with a 69-run second-wicket stand. Just when Ireland appeared to be gaining control, Sandhu struck twice in quick succession, removing both well-set batters.

The double blow triggered a collapse, with only Orla Prendergast (37 off 53 balls) offering some resistance. But the Pakistan bowlers maintained the pressure, eventually dismissing Ireland for 179 to secure a comprehensive win.