England Women delivered a dominant batting display at Grace Road, overhauling Ireland Women’s target of 281 with six wickets in hand. Maia Bouchier starred with a brilliant century, ably supported by Sophia Dunkley, as the hosts reached 283/4 in just 38.1 overs.
Lewis and Hunter lead Ireland to commanding total
England Women chose to field after winning the toss, yet Ireland Women responded with a solid batting effort, posting 281/5 in their 50 overs. Captain Gaby Lewis led the way, compiling a composed 69 off 89 balls, including eight fours. Amy Hunter offered strong support, scoring 62 from 90 deliveries with five boundaries. Together they gave Ireland a steady foundation before the middle order lifted the run rate.
Rebecca Stokell injected momentum with a quick 54 off 48 balls, lashing seven fours. Orla Prendergast added a brisk 19 from 17 deliveries, and Leah Paul contributed a handy 29 off 39. Alice Tector managed 11 before falling early, while Louise Little ended with four runs. For England, Issy Wong and Charlotte Dean each took two wickets, with Mady Villiers claiming one. Lauren Filer was especially economical, giving away just 37 runs from her 10 overs, yet Ireland’s steady accumulation carried them to a competitive 281.
Bouchier and Dunkley guide England to comfortable chase
England’s reply was anchored by a stellar opening stand between Bouchier and Dunkley, who seized control and applied constant pressure on Ireland’s bowlers. Bouchier delivered the match‑defining performance, making a magnificent 104 off 95 balls, hitting 11 fours. Dunkley matched her feat, scoring a rapid 73 from 61 deliveries and finding the rope 13 times.
Their partnership meant England were never truly under threat despite Ireland’s challenging total. Jodi Grewcock added nine before being dismissed, while Alice Capsey contributed a valuable 41 off 40 balls, including four fours and a six. Freya Kemp then sealed the victory in style, hammering 36 from just 22 deliveries, striking seven boundaries. Danielle Gibson remained not out on one as England reached 283/4 in 38.1 overs.
Ireland’s bowlers found it difficult to curb England’s aggressive batting, though Cara Murray was the pick of the attack, taking three wickets for 58 runs in nine overs. The series now shifts to the County Ground in Derby, where the second match is slated for Thursday, September 3.
