In the inaugural ODI at Stormont, Kate Cross, acting captain for England lead her novice team to victory over Ireland by four wickets. Notably, this was Cross’ most exceptional bowling performance till date. Even with most of England’s T20 World Cup squad absent, including Heather Knight, Cross lead an excellent offence, taking six for 30 and causing a breakdown in the Irish formation from 151-3 to a full 210 in the 47th over.
Ireland initially caused troubles for England which were then quickly resolved by Cross with assistance from Freya Kemp, with Cross finishing undefeated with a score of 38, allowing England’s win with over 15 overs to spare.
The match saw Paige Scholfield, Hannah Baker, and Ryana MacDonald-Gay receiving their international initiations, whereas Mady Villiers and Hollie Armitage marked their first time in an ODI.
Following the decision of Ireland, after winning the toss, to bat, England’s swift response left the home team 21 for two. Amy Hunter and Orla Prendergast attempted a resurgence with a 50 partnership before Hunter was dismissed at 37 by Baker, marking her first international wicket.
Prendergast’s robust performance notched the highest score of 76 but after being ousted in the 31st over, the Irish lineup dwindled, allowing MacDonald-Gay to claim her debut England wicket. This set the stage for Cross to dismantle the tail-end earning four wickets in quick succession.
The beginning of England’s response was uncertain, with Prendergast applauded for his spectacular catch and bowl of opening batswoman Emma Lamb (four) in the third over. Shortly after, Tammy Beaumont (10) was also taken out by Prendergast, which saw the visitor’s score at a precarious 32 for two.
Scholfield contributed a brisk 31 to the score, and Armitage chalked up 44, prior to the World Cup-select, Kemp (26), and a tenaciously undefeated 33 by wicketkeeper-batter Bess Heath supporting Cross — achieving her best-ever ODI tally — assisting England towards its successful outcome.
The second match of their three-match ODI series is scheduled to take place at the identical location in Belfast this upcoming Monday.