Pakistan began their Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025 path with a 38-run win against Ireland in the PAK vs IRE 1st ODI Match. The day belonged to returning seamer Diana Baig, who marked her return to form with a four-wicket haul.
Diana Baig’s Dream Return Seals the Win
Diana Baig, returning to international cricket after a break since the 2024 T20 World Cup, lived up to her selection from the outset, delivering figures of 4 for 35 and breaking Ireland’s lower order. Her pace and accuracy played an important role in Pakistan’s ability to defend a modest total while conceding 161 runs.
Pakistan Post 217 Despite Middle-Order Collapse
Declaring to bat first, Pakistan concluded at 217 all out, courtesy of an even-handed innings by Aliya Riaz and Sidra Amin.
– Aliya Riaz made a quick 36 off 36 balls, which gave the momentum in the middle overs.
– Sidra Amin, however, steadied the innings with a cautious 50 off 110 balls.
But Pakistan’s batting was lacking in intent during the last overs. Having been 153 for 3 in the 36th over, they experienced a collapse, losing six wickets for a mere 42 runs, and were bowled out with one over remaining.
Ireland Start Strong but Falter Under Pressure
Looking for a target of 218, Ireland got off to a good start. A superb partnership of 69 runs for the second wicket between Gaby Lewis and Amy Hunter saw them to 96 for 1, leaving them well-placed in the chase. However, that fun was short-lived.
Nashra Sandhu Triggers the Collapse
Left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu turned things upside down, picking three wickets for four overs, of which the most important one was Gaby Lewis, who had held the innings together so far.
Having been 96 for 1, Ireland collapsed to 179 all out, with Sadia Iqbal and Diana Baig putting the finishing touches. Baig got rid of the tail with attacking short spells, seeing Pakistan emerge victorious in a vital win.
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Future Match Schedule – Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025
– Ireland vs West Indies – Friday
– Scotland vs Pakistan – Friday
Each team now wants to set its strategies right ahead of consequential group-stage encounters.
1st Match PAK vs IRE – Women’s World Cup Qualifier
– Pakistan: 217 all out (Sidra Amin 50, Aliya Riaz 36)
– Ireland: 179 all out (Diana Baig 4/35, Nashra Sandhu 3 wickets)
– Result: Pakistan won by 38 runs
Tournament Heats Up with Early Upsets
The PAK vs IRE 1st Match underscored the value of experience and bowling sense in high-pressure situations. Pakistan’s seasoned players, particularly Diana Baig and Nashra Sandhu, were crucial in getting a morale-boosting victory.
As the Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025 unfolds, fans can expect more twists, high-stakes performances, and potential upsets in the days to come.
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