Muneeba guides Pakistan women to T20I win over Ireland

LAHORE: Wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali delivered a masterclass in batting, scoring an unbeaten 100 off 68 balls to lead Pakistan Women to a commanding eight-wicket victory over Ireland Women in the third and final T20I at Clontarf Cricket Club.

The win marked Pakistan’s highest successful chase in Women’s T20Is, as they overhauled Ireland’s 155-run target in just 17.4 overs, securing a consolation win in the series which Ireland claimed 2–1.

Muneeba, who remains the only Pakistani woman to score a T20I century, reached her milestone with 14 fours and one six, bringing up her second career hundred against the same opposition. Her innings began with a flurry—three consecutive boundaries off Orla Prendergast—and never lost momentum.

After early dismissals of Shawaal Zulfiqar (3) and Natalia Pervaiz (9), Muneeba found a reliable partner in Aliya Riaz, who contributed a brisk 39 not out off 27 balls. Together, they stitched an unbeaten 101-run stand off 70 balls, only the fourth century partnership for Pakistan in Women’s T20Is.

Earlier, Ireland posted 155/4 after electing to bat. Skipper Gaby Lewis (36 off 22) and Amy Hunter (29 off 33) gave the hosts a flying start with a 52-run opening stand. The innings was anchored by Orla Prendergast, who remained unbeaten on 64 off 46 balls, earning her the Player of the Series award.

Pakistan’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Rameen Shamim, Waheeda Akhtar, Sadia Iqbal, and Fatima Sana each picking up a wicket. Despite losing the series, Pakistan’s emphatic finish showcased their depth and resilience, especially in the batting department.

This victory not only boosts morale ahead of upcoming assignments but also reinforces Muneeba Ali’s status as a trailblazer in Pakistan women’s cricket. Scores in brief: Ireland 155-4, 20 overs (Orla Prandergast 64 not out, Gaby Lewis 36, Amy Hunter 29; Rameen Shamin 1-18).

Pakistan 156-2, 17.4 overs (Muneeba Ali 100 not out, Aliya Riaz 29 not out; Ava Canning 1-17). Player of the match: Muneeba Ali (Pakistan Women). Player of the series – Orla Prandergast (Ireland Women).