Ireland breeze to 63-run win over Italy to remain unbeaten in qualifier

Ireland continued their unbeaten streak in the T20 World Cup European Qualifiers with a 63-run win over Italy in Rotterdam.

Winning the toss, Italy opted to put Ireland in to bat first. Finishing 166/4, the scorecard didn’t tell the full story with a number of missed chances for the Italians in the field. However, the joy and triumph from Northamptonshire all-rounder Lenny Sims as she clean bowled Ireland captain Gaby Lewis is a moment Italy will not be forgetting in a hurry.

The lack of pace from the Italian bowlers proved a challenge at times for Ireland a number of shots falling shorter than planned finding the hands of Italy’s fielders, Leah Paul and Amy Hunter both dismissed in this fashion.  

A batting department with strength and depth enabled Ireland to pile on 41 runs from the last three overs, Rebecca Stockell (38*) and Laura Delany (28*) the instigators of that.

An unideal start to Italy’s reply saw them fall 20/3 within the powerplay. Annie Wilkman and Chloe Piparo prevented more damage being inflicted scoring over 50 between them.

One of the stark differences between these two sides, Ireland naturally being favourites heading into the qualifiers, is the batting depth. Italy have limited options and when the top order fails, any hopes of winnings start to disappear.

Additionally, Ireland offered variation with their bowling, Arlene Kelly taking 3-fer (including two in two), the rest of the wickets shared between Freya Sargent, Ava Canning, Alana Dalzell and Orla Prendergast.

Both teams will play again tomorrow with Ireland facing Germany in the morning and Italy taking on the Netherlands in the afternoon slot.