IND-W vs IRE-W: A Thrilling Encounter in Rajkot

In the first of a three-match series, the Indian Women's cricket team took on Ireland Women at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Sunday.
The Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, won the toss and elected to field first. Ireland, led by Gaby Lewis, posted a competitive total of 238/7 in their allotted 50 overs.
Lewis top-scored for Ireland with a brilliant 92 off 125 balls, which included 10 fours and 1 six. She was ably supported by Eimear Richardson, who scored a valuable 59 off 72 balls.
India's bowling attack was led by Deepti Sharma, who picked up 2/56 in her 10 overs. Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Sneh Rana, and Harmanpreet Kaur also chipped in with wickets.
In response, India lost Smriti Mandhana for a duck in the first over, but Pratika Rawal and Yastika Bhatia steadied the innings with a 74-run stand for the second wicket. Rawal went on to score a magnificent 89 off 114 balls, hitting 9 fours and 1 six.
Tejal Hasabnis also played a crucial knock, scoring an unbeaten 53 off 46 balls to guide India to a comfortable six-wicket victory with 93 balls to spare.
The win gives India a 1-0 lead in the series. The second ODI will be played at the same venue on Tuesday, January 12th.
Match Highlights:
* Gaby Lewis' 92 and Eimear Richardson's 59 powered Ireland to a competitive 238/7.
* Pratika Rawal's 89 and Tejal Hasabnis' unbeaten 53 led India to a comfortable six-wicket victory.
* India took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three ODI series.
The match was a testament to the growing strength of women's cricket in both India and Ireland. The teams displayed great skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the contest.