Sana’s Four Wickets Restrict Ireland in First T20I

DUBLIN: Fatima Sana’s impressive four-wicket performance helped Pakistan restrict Ireland to a modest total in the opening T20I of their three-match series at Clontarf Cricket Club on Wednesday.

After being asked to bat, the Irish batting lineup struggled, ultimately scoring 142 runs before being bowled out in 19.4 overs.

The home side faced an early setback when their captain, Gaby Lewis (one), was bowled by Pakistan’s Sana in the third over with the score at just 18.

Following this early loss, Hunter was joined by Orla Prendergast, and together they formed a steady partnership of 45 runs for the second wicket until Sandhu dismissed Hunter in the ninth over.

Hunter was Ireland’s highest scorer, contributing 37 runs off 30 balls, including five boundaries.

Prendergast followed her to the pavilion two overs later, getting dismissed by Rameen Shamim in the 13th over after scoring 29 runs from 26 deliveries, hitting three fours.

Middle-order batter Leah Paul then forged a 25-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Laura Delany before being dismissed by Sadia Iqbal. She made 29 runs from 18 balls, hitting four boundaries.

Paul’s dismissal triggered a collapse, resulting in Ireland losing wickets rapidly and eventually being bowled out for 142 with two balls remaining.

Skipper Fatima Sana stood out for Pakistan, claiming four wickets for 26 runs in her four overs. Sadia, Nashra, Rameen, and Diana Baig each took one wicket.