England Women Secure Four-Wicket Victory Over Ireland in 1st ODI

England captain Kate Cross leads her team to victory with an unbeaten 38* in the first ODI against Ireland Women, securing a four-wicket win in Belfast. / Getty

England Women claimed a four-wicket win against Ireland Women in the opening ODI of their tour, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Chasing 211, England overcame early setbacks, finishing with 91 balls to spare.

Irish bowlers, led by Orla Prendergast (2/32), put pressure on England, dismissing openers Emma Lamb and Tammy Beaumont within the first seven overs. However, a vital 62-run partnership between Hollie Armitage and Paige Scholfield steadied the innings.

Despite Ireland's spinners making inroads, reducing England to 156/6, skipper Kate Cross (38*) and Bess Heath (33*) anchored the chase, sharing a match-winning unbeaten stand of 55 runs to seal the victory.

Earlier, Kate Cross shone on her captaincy debut, claiming 6 wickets as Ireland collapsed from 151/3 to 210 all out. Orla Prendergast top-scored for Ireland with 59, supported by Leah Paul's 42.

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With this win, England Women head into the second ODI with momentum, looking to clinch the series.