**Ireland Opt to Bat in First Women’s ODI Against India**
In a thrilling start to the three-match series, the Ireland women’s cricket team, led by captain Gaby Lewis, opted to bat first in the inaugural One Day International (ODI) match against India at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on January 10, 2025. This decision marked a strategic move by the Irish team, aiming to capitalize on the favorable conditions and set a competitive total for the hosts.
The toss was won by Ireland skipper Gaby Lewis, who made the crucial call to bat first. This decision was not taken lightly, as the Irish team was aware of the strong bowling lineup that India had assembled for the series. Despite the challenges, Lewis and her team were determined to make a statement and set the tone for the remainder of the tour.
India, led by stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana, handed ODI debut to all-rounder Sayali Satghare, a right-arm pace bowler who also bats lower down the order. This move was seen as an opportunity for India to bolster their bowling attack and provide depth to their squad.
The Irish innings got off to a shaky start, with the visitors losing two wickets in quick succession. Sarah Forbes was the first to fall, dismissed by medium pacer Titas Sadhu for just nine runs. The second wicket fell when Una Raymond-Hoey was run out after a mix-up with Lewis, reducing Ireland to 34 for two.
However, it was the partnership between Lewis and Leah Paul that turned the tide in favor of Ireland. The duo added 117 runs for the fifth wicket, with Lewis scoring a classy 92 off 129 balls and lacing the knock with 15 boundaries. Paul contributed 59 off 73 balls, helping to stabilize the innings and bring about a semblance of stability to the Irish batting lineup.
Despite several dropped catches and misfields by the Indian fielding team, Lewis and Paul managed to steer their team to a respectable total of 238 for seven. The Irish innings was marked by a series of near-misses and close calls, but ultimately, it was the resilience and determination of the Irish players that allowed them to post a competitive score.
In response, India’s batting lineup, led by Mandhana, showed no signs of hesitation. Mandhana, who has been in dominant form, smashed a career-best 89 off 96 balls, including 10 fours and one six. Her aggressive strokeplay unsettled the Irish bowlers, particularly against seamer Georgina Dempsey in the eighth over.
Mandhana’s opening partner, Pratika Rawal, also made a significant contribution with a fifty off 46 balls, including nine boundaries. The duo shared a match-winning 116-run partnership from 84 balls, helping India to chase down the target with ease. Tejal Hasabnis, who made a memorable comeback, remained unbeaten on 53 off 46 balls, further solidifying India’s victory.
India eventually won the match by six wickets, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The victory was a testament to India’s strong batting lineup and their ability to adapt to different conditions. The Irish team, despite their valiant effort, will look to regroup and prepare for the next match, aiming to level the series.
As the series progresses, both teams will be eager to showcase their skills and emerge victorious. The next match promises to be just as thrilling, with both teams determined to make their mark on the cricketing world.
In conclusion, the first ODI match between Ireland and India was a thrilling contest that showcased the skills and determination of both teams. Ireland’s decision to bat first was a strategic move that ultimately led to a competitive total, but it was India’s strong batting lineup that sealed their victory. The series is set to be an exciting one, with both teams vying for supremacy in the world of women’s cricket.
