Stormont, July 27, 2025: Ireland Women clinched a commanding 4-wicket win over Zimbabwe Women in the second and final ODI at Stormont, thereby securing a 2-0 series sweep. The hosts chased down a modest target of 179 with 67 balls to spare, thanks to a composed unbeaten knock of 67 by Orla Prendergast and a crucial top-order partnership with Gaby Lewis.
After opting to bat first, Zimbabwe Women struggled to build momentum throughout their innings. They were bowled out for 178 in 49.1 overs despite valiant efforts from Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano and Modester Mupachikwa. Mugeri-Tiripano top-scored with 56 runs from 92 deliveries, while Mupachikwa added a solid 45 off 86 balls, helping Zimbabwe reach a somewhat defendable total.
However, the Zimbabwean middle and lower order collapsed under pressure from Ireland’s disciplined bowling attack. Alana Dalzell was the star with the ball, claiming 4 wickets for 36 runs in her full quota of 10 overs. She was well supported by Lara McBride, who picked up 3/22 in 7.1 overs. Louise Little chipped in with 1/24 from her four overs, maintaining tight lines throughout.
In reply, Ireland Women got off to a steady start and never looked in danger during the chase. Although they lost a few wickets mid-way, opener Gaby Lewis (44 off 59) and Orla Prendergast (67* off 72) kept the scoreboard ticking with timely boundaries and calculated risks.
The turning point in the chase was the partnership between Lewis and Prendergast, which laid the platform for the win. Even after Lewis departed, Laura Delany (18) and later the lower order ensured there were no hiccups. Prendergast’s calm and confident presence at the crease saw the home team cross the finish line at 182/6 in just 38.5 overs.
Despite the loss, Zimbabwe had some positives to take home. Loreen Tshuma was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 4/35 in 10 overs, showing aggression and control. Kudzai Chigora and Francesca Chipare took one wicket each, but the lack of support from the rest of the bowling unit made defending 178 difficult.
Score Summary
Zimbabwe Women: 178 all out in 49.1 overs
- Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano – 56 (92)
- Modester Mupachikwa – 45 (86)
- Alana Dalzell – 4/36 (10), Lara McBride – 3/22 (7.1)
Ireland Women: 182/6 in 38.5 overs
- Orla Prendergast – 67* (72)
- Gaby Lewis – 44 (59)
- Loreen Tshuma – 4/35 (10)
Series Result: Ireland Women won the 2-match ODI series 2-0.
With this win, Ireland Women continue to assert their dominance at home, and their consistent performances in the 50-over format signal strong preparation ahead of upcoming ICC events. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will go back to the drawing board to work on their middle-order batting and bowling depth.
