Ireland women down Thailand to register first win in WC Qualifiers

LAHORE: Ireland secured their first victory in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier tournament, defeating Thailand by 46 runs in a high-scoring contest at the LCCA Ground in Lahore on Tuesday.

Having already been eliminated from World Cup contention following earlier defeats to Pakistan, West Indies, and Bangladesh, the Irish women put on an impressive batting display to post a formidable total of 305-4 in their allotted 50 overs.

The innings was built around three substantial contributions from Ireland’s top order. Amy Hunter top-scored with a fluent 76, while captain Gaby Lewis led from the front with an authoritative 75. Leah Paul remained unbeaten on 67, providing the finishing touches to Ireland’s imposing total. Sarah Forbes 29, Orla Prendergast 21 and Laura Delany not out 23 were the other contributors.

Thailand, facing the daunting task of chasing over 300-plus runs, showed commendable spirit but were always behind the required run rate. Suwanan Khiaoto provided the backbone of their innings with a fighting 59, while Maya contributed 43, but the Thai batters struggled to maintain the momentum needed for such a challenging chase.

The standout performer with the ball for Ireland was Louise Little, who claimed remarkable figures of 5-28. Her five-wicket haul proved decisive in restricting Thailand’s progress. Coleraine youngster Kia McCartney made a memorable start to her international career, picking up two wickets for 73 runs on her Ireland debut. Despite their best efforts, Thailand were eventually dismissed for 259 in the final over of their innings, with Khiaoto being the last batter to fall as Little completed her five-wicket haul.