Ireland go top of tri-series table after DLS victory in rain-hit Dublin clash

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Orla Prendergast starred with both bat and ball as Ireland women’s cricket team edged past West Indies women’s cricket team by one run via the DLS method in a rain-affected tri-series encounter in Dublin.

Chasing 142 in 20 overs, Ireland found themselves in a tricky position before Prendergast produced a match-winning unbeaten 71 off 46 balls. Her innings, featuring 11 fours and a six, kept the hosts ahead of the required rate despite wickets falling regularly around her.

The decisive moment came at the start of the 15th over when Louise Little struck a crucial boundary to take Ireland to 99 for 5. That score moved them one run ahead of the DLS par score of 98 before rain forced play to stop. With conditions preventing any further action, Ireland were declared winners.

Earlier, Prendergast had also made a key contribution with the ball, claiming 2 for 26, including the important wickets of Aaliyah Alleyne and Zaida James in the closing overs.

However, it was Ava Canning who set the tone for Ireland’s bowling effort. Her excellent spell of 2 for 11 removed West Indies captain Hayley Matthews and opener Qiana Joseph early, reducing the visitors to a difficult position.

West Indies struggled for momentum throughout the innings, especially after Stafanie Taylor retired hurt on 9. At one stage they were effectively five wickets down for just 53 runs before a 44-run partnership between Shemaine Campbelle (21) and Jannillea Glasgow (36) helped them recover to 141 for 8.

West Indies made a dream start to the chase defence when Shawnisha Hector struck twice in the opening over. But Prendergast counterattacked brilliantly, scoring nearly 72% of Ireland’s runs and ensuring her side stayed in touch with the target.

The result lifts Ireland to the top of the tri-series standings with two wins from three matches. West Indies also have two victories from three games, while Pakistan women’s cricket team remain winless after their opening two fixtures.