SCO-W vs IRE-W: Kathryn Bryce, bowlers shine as Scotland registers a convincing victory over Ireland in the 1st ODI

Scotland Women and Ireland Women locked horns with each other in an exciting opening match of the three-match ODI series at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground. The Scottish emerged victorious in the contest by 40 runs, taking a convincing lead (1-0) over the Irish team.

Kathryn Bryce powers Scotland Women to a competitive total

Asked to bat first, Scotland Women’s innings were anchored by Kathryn Bryce‘s exceptional knock of 78 runs off 103 balls. Her resolute performance, featuring five boundaries, was a cornerstone of the team’s total. Sarah Bryce also contributed with 42 runs off 66 balls. Meanwhile, Ailsa Lister, Ellen Watson, and Olivia Bell also chipped in with crucial runs.

The bowling attack of Ireland Women made commendable efforts. Georgina Dempsey and Laura Delany each picked up two wickets, conceding 25 and 23 runs, respectively. Arlene Kelly and Freya Sargent also claimed two wickets each. Orla Prendergast and Cara Murray added to the wicket column as well, taking one wicket apiece.

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Ireland Women’s batting line-up surrenders to Scottish bowlers

In reply, Ireland Women showed resilience but ultimately couldn’t chase down the set target. Leah Paul was the top scorer with 43 runs off 71 balls, supported by Prendergast’s 37 runs off 43 balls. The rest of the batting line-up tried to contribute, but Scotland’s bowlers managed to keep them in check. Rainey was the star for Scotland, taking three crucial wickets.

Scotland defeated Ireland by 40 runs 🏏

Scorecard: https://t.co/OmNhIhqtWn#women #cricket #scotlandcricket #irelandcricket #ODI #cricketnews #CricketTwitter #WomenCricket pic.twitter.com/0k8fpiwi35

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) October 18, 2023

With a decent win, Scotland women will now look to carry the momentum and seal the series when they next meet on Thursday (October 19) at the same venue.

It is worth mentioning that the three-match ODI series will be followed by a T20I leg between the two sides, promising an enthralling action for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

Also READ: Pakistan announces Women squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of Bangladesh

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.