Rajkot, Jan 10 (UNI) Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasabnis led India Women to a comprehensive victory, guiding their team to a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against Ireland with a professional performance here on Friday.
The pair put on a rapid 100-plus partnership, with Pratika making 89 and Hasabnis remaining unbeaten on 53, to steer India past Ireland’s target with more than 15 overs to spare. Their quickfire knocks ensured a comfortable chase, as the Indian women cruised to victory.
Earlier, Ireland were in trouble at 56/4 after losing early wickets. However, skipper Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul steadied the ship with a remarkable 117-run partnership for the fifth wicket, ensuring a respectable total for their side. The duo mixed caution with aggression, although India’s bowlers allowed a few loose deliveries, and a couple of dropped catches, which aided Ireland’s recovery.
Despite their strong resistance, Ireland’s innings stumbled after Leah fell for a well-made 59 and Gaby was dismissed for 92. A brisk cameo from Arlene Kelly lifted Ireland to a total of over 225, a target that seemed unlikely at one point given their early struggles.
Ireland’s bowler, Aimee Maguire, claimed three wickets for 57 runs, but the rest of the attack failed to stem the flow of runs. The surface, while slow, offered runs, and India’s professional approach ensured a comfortable win.
