Sylhet, Dec 9, 2024 (V7N) - Ireland's Women’s Cricket Team completed a remarkable 3-0 sweep over Bangladesh in the T20 International series with a nail-biting four-wicket victory in the third and final match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Laura Delany emerged as the hero for Ireland, playing a composed 31-ball 36* under pressure to guide her side to victory with just one ball to spare. Facing a daunting four runs required from the last two deliveries, Delany struck a crucial boundary off Shorna Akter to seal the match and the series.

This thrilling win followed Ireland's earlier successes in the series, with a 12-run victory in the first T20I and a commanding 47-run win in the second match.

Ireland’s Chase and Delany’s Resilience

Set a target of 124, Ireland began strongly with openers Amy Hunter (28) and captain Gaby Lewis (21) forging a solid 55-run partnership. However, Bangladesh fought back, taking regular wickets to stall Ireland’s momentum.

Despite the setbacks, Delany anchored the innings, keeping her composure as wickets tumbled around her. Her decisive innings ensured Ireland's triumph and capped off a dominant series performance.

Bangladesh’s Innings: Sobhana and Sharmin Shine Amidst Collapse

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh posted 123-7, a competitive total on a tricky surface. Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akhter Supta were the mainstays of the innings, adding a vital 71-run partnership for the second wicket.

Sharmin contributed a solid 34 runs before falling, while Sobhana top-scored with 45 off 42 balls. However, a late collapse saw Bangladesh add just 16 runs for the loss of four wickets in the final 4.4 overs.

Ireland's Orla Prendergast was instrumental in derailing Bangladesh’s innings, claiming a career-best 4-22 in her four overs. Amiee Maguire supported her efforts with figures of 2-25.

Series Recap and Bangladesh's ODI Sweep

The series win is a significant achievement for Ireland, showcasing their growth in women’s cricket. Bangladesh had earlier dominated the ODI series with a 3-0 clean sweep, but Ireland's T20I performance displayed their resilience and capability to bounce back.

This series victory will be a morale boost for Ireland as they continue to build momentum in international cricket. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will need to address their middle-order woes and finishing issues to regain dominance in the shorter format.

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