Ireland Secure Super Six Berth Despite Nine-Run Loss to Bangladesh as Gaby Lewis Shines with 73

In a thrilling Group A encounter at Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmandu, Ireland suffered a nine-run defeat against Bangladesh but still secured their passage to the Super Six stage of the Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier tournament. Captain Gaby Lewis produced a stellar knock of 73, but it wasn't quite enough to chase down Bangladesh's competitive total of 153-7.

Bangladesh Set Challenging Target

Sharmin Akhter Leads the Charge

Bangladesh's innings was anchored by Player of the Match Sharmin Akhter, who compiled a composed half-century of 52 runs. The experienced batter provided the stability her side needed on a crucial matchday.

Opening batter Dilara Akter set the tone early with an aggressive 35 off just 27 balls. Her second-wicket partnership of 70 with Sharmin Akhter proved to be the cornerstone of Bangladesh's innings, establishing a formidable platform for the middle order to build upon.

Late Acceleration from Sobhana Mostary

The late overs saw Sobhana Mostary inject further momentum into the Bangladesh innings with a quickfire 30 off just 16 deliveries. Her cameo ensured the Tigers posted a challenging total of 153-7 from their allotted 20 overs.

Ireland's Bowling Performance

For Ireland, the bowling duties were shared effectively despite conceding over 150 runs. Celeste Maguire emerged as the most economical of the frontline bowlers, claiming 2-24 from her spell. Arlene Kelly also chipped in with two wickets, finishing with figures of 2-44, including the crucial dismissal of the dangerous Mostary.

Ireland's Chase Falls Agonisingly Short

Strong Start Before Collapse

Ireland's reply began promisingly as they cruised to 71 before losing their first wicket. However, the dismissal of Orla Prendergast for 12 in the 11th over triggered a mini-collapse, with Leah Paul following just two balls later for a duck.

Gaby Lewis Carries the Fight

Captain Gaby Lewis produced a captain's innings of the highest order, scoring 73 runs off 58 balls. Her knock was adorned with 10 boundaries and one maximum, showcasing her full array of strokeplay. Lewis formed a valuable third-wicket partnership of 47 with Laura Delany, who contributed 13 runs before falling.

Amy Hunter's Milestone and Resilience

In a match that held special significance for Amy Hunter, the 20-year-old opener was forced to retire hurt on 25 but showed tremendous character by returning to finish unbeaten on 35. Remarkably, this fixture marked Hunter's 100th appearance for Ireland—a significant milestone for such a young player.

Despite these individual efforts, Ireland finished on 144-4, falling nine runs short of their target. Shoma Akter was the standout performer for Bangladesh with the ball, claiming 2-17 from her spell.

Super Six Qualification Secured

Results Fall in Ireland's Favour

Despite the defeat, Ireland's progression to the Super Six was confirmed thanks to results elsewhere in Group A. Having already defeated Papua New Guinea and the USA in their opening two fixtures, Ireland accumulated enough points to secure their advancement regardless of Saturday's outcome.

Bangladesh Top the Group

Bangladesh, meanwhile, qualified for the Super Six as undefeated group champions, winning all four of their Group A matches. Their clinical performances throughout the group stage underline their credentials as serious contenders for World Cup qualification.

Road to the World Cup

The Super Six stage represents the final hurdle before World Cup qualification, with the top four teams from this phase earning their tickets to the main event. Ireland will be keen to put this narrow defeat behind them and carry forward the momentum from their earlier victories.

With players like Gaby Lewis in fine form and the emerging talent of Amy Hunter reaching significant milestones, Ireland possess the firepower to compete with the best in the tournament. The experience of falling just short against a quality Bangladesh side could prove invaluable as they navigate the challenges ahead.

Looking Ahead

Ireland will regroup and refocus as they prepare for the Super Six stage. The narrow margin of defeat—just nine runs—will serve as motivation, knowing that small improvements in execution could be the difference between World Cup qualification and disappointment. With their captain leading from the front and a balanced squad at their disposal, Ireland remain firmly in contention for a coveted World Cup berth.