Ireland’s record score in vain as Dutch tie forced to be abandoned

IRELAND Women’s hopes of getting back to winning ways at the quadrangular tournament in Holland yesterday were dashed by rain as their second game against the hosts was abandoned 16 balls into the second innings.

Having beaten the Dutch on the opening day to record their only victory so far, they were firmly on course to complete the double after amassing 2134, their record T20 total, and the seventh highest in a Women’s T20 international.

But with Netherlands on 18-1, the rain came with a vengeance and there was no chance of completing the match.

Openers Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast had given Ireland a fast start with a stand of 112, a record for any Ireland wicket, in just 9.4 overs, before Prendergast, playing only her fourth international, was bowled for 38 from 26 balls.

Lewis had already completed her half century but was caught two overs later, driving carelessly to cover, but she had already hit six fours and four sixes and faced just 41 balls.

Leah Paul missed a sweep shot and was bowled two balls later but, despite that double blow, Ireland scored 78 from the last eight overs, with Rebecca Stokell hitting five fours in her 24-ball 36 and Mary Waldron finishing 31 not out from 22.

Eimear Richardson made the breakthrough with what proved to be the last ball before the rain and leaves Ireland needing to win both their last two games to give themselves a chance of winning the tournament.

Today they face Thailand who lost to Scotland off the last ball yesterday, their first defeat in 18 T20 internationals.

Scores: Ireland 213-4 (20 overs, G Lewis 71, O Prendergast 38, R Stokell 36, M Waldron 31 not out; L Bennett 3-22) Netherlands 18-1 (2.4 overs). Match abandoned.