Ireland Secures Dramatic ODI Victory Over England in Belfast

In a thrilling conclusion at Belfast’s cricket ground, Ireland clinched their first one-day international victory over England since 2001, winning by three wickets under the DLS method. The match, which was reduced to 22 overs a side due to heavy morning rain, provided a dramatic final-ball finish.

Ireland’s chase of a revised target of 155 runs came down to the wire after a chaotic batting collapse nearly derailed their pursuit. The hosts required eight runs from the final over, but a series of three consecutive wickets gave England a glimmer of hope. With four runs needed from the last delivery, number-nine batter Alana Dalzell stepped up to the challenge, striking a boundary to secure the win. Her crucial shot went past a misjudged fielding attempt by Hollie Armitage at long-on, sealing Ireland’s remarkable victory.

Earlier in the game, England had set a target of 153 runs, thanks to a solid innings from Tammy Beaumont, who scored 52 off 42 balls. However, England’s innings fell apart as they lost six wickets for just 46 runs, collapsing from a promising 107-3 to 153 all out. Spinner Aimee Maguire was the standout performer for Ireland, claiming a career-best 5-19 and dismantling England’s middle and lower order.

Despite a strong start, England’s young side struggled under pressure, and Ireland’s victory was a testament to their resilience after being bowled out for just 45 runs two days earlier. The match’s final over saw a dramatic shift as spinner Mady Villiers took on the responsibility of delivering the crucial over, with Una Raymond-Hoey run out and Alice Tector and Jane Maguire falling for ducks.

With this victory, Ireland demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level, although England still won the ODI series 2-1. The teams now shift their focus to the upcoming T20 series, starting on Saturday in Clontarf, Dublin, where the action is set to continue.