Ireland Women vs India Women: Rawal Stars in Win Over Ireland
India’s women’s cricket team delivered an impressive performance in their chase of 239 at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, outclassing Ireland in a thrilling match. Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasabnis were the stars of the day, steering the team to a comfortable victory in the “Ireland women vs India women” ODI clash.
Ireland women vs India women: Mandhana and Rawal Set the Tone
The Indian chase began with captain Smriti Mandhana continuing her spectacular 2024 form. Rawal, opening alongside Mandhana, had the best view from the non-striker’s end as Mandhana unleashed her attacking game. Orla Prendergast and young Georgina Dempsey bore the brunt of Mandhana’s aggression, with powerful pull shots and crisp boundaries marking her innings.
In the third over, it was Rawal’s time to shine. A beautifully timed cover drive followed by a stunning pull shot displayed her impeccable hand-eye coordination. While Mandhana dominated the early overs, Rawal played the perfect supporting role, rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries. This partnership exploited the early fielding restrictions, giving India a flying start.
Mandhana’s quickfire 41 came to an end when she fell while attempting to accelerate further, leaving India in a strong position. However, her dismissal slowed the scoring rate as Harleen Deol and Jemimah Rodrigues departed in quick succession, trying to push the pace. Rawal, undeterred, anchored the innings with composure and determination.
Rawal Holds the Fort
With wickets falling around her, Rawal adapted her game to the situation, keeping the scoreboard ticking and minimizing risks. Her maturity shone through as she shouldered the responsibility of playing a long innings. Speaking to the media after the match, Rawal reflected on her role: “We had a really good start, and the wicket was really nice. When the wickets were falling, I was just trying to keep it simple and play my shots. If I have been given a responsibility to play till the end, I was trying to contribute to the team.”
Hasabnis Steps Up
Rawal found a reliable partner in Tejal Hasabnis, who marked her return to the playing XI with a stellar performance. Hasabnis, batting at number five, demonstrated her ability to handle pressure and deliver in crucial moments. The duo stitched together a match-winning 116-run partnership off just 84 balls, taking India to the brink of victory. Hasabnis’s unbeaten 53 was a testament to her grit and skill.
Rawal’s knock of 89 was the backbone of India’s chase. Her steady innings, combined with Hasabnis’s aggressive approach, ensured India crossed the finish line with ease. Praising her partner, Rawal said, “At the end, Tejal played really well.”
Ireland’s Battling Effort
Earlier in the day, Ireland posted their highest-ever ODI score against India, reaching 238/7 in their allotted 50 overs. Gaby Lewis led the charge with a splendid 92, supported by Laura Paul’s 59. The Indian bowlers, led by Mishra’s 2/59, managed to keep the total within reach despite Ireland’s spirited effort.
Looking Ahead
Rawal’s consistent performances have bolstered her case for World Cup selection. Having already faced quality bowling attacks on batting-friendly tracks, she has showcased her potential as a dependable opener. With two ODIs remaining in the series, Rawal has an opportunity to further cement her place in the team.
𝗔 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗻! 🙌 🙌
A solid show from #TeamIndia to seal a 6⃣-wicket victory over Ireland in the series opener! 👏 👏
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/bcSIVpjnlo#INDvIRE | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/ttWtOphIzO
— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) January 10, 2025
India’s next series is not scheduled until July 2025, making the ongoing matches against Ireland (Ireland women vs India women) a crucial platform for players to stake their claim for future tournaments. Hasabnis’s impactful return has also added depth to India’s batting lineup, providing selectors with more options.
Ireland women vs India women: Brief scores
- Ireland: 238/7 in 50 overs (Gaby Lewis 92, Laura Paul 59; Mishra 2/59)
- India: 241/4 in 34.3 overs (Pratika Rawal 89, Tejal Hasabnis 53*; Arlene Maguire 3/57)
India’s victory highlighted the team’s depth and resilience, with Rawal and Hasabnis emerging as standout performers. As the “Ireland women vs India women” series progresses, fans can expect more exciting cricket and standout individual performances.
