India’s women’s cricket team started their three-match ODI series against Ireland with a bang, securing a six-wicket victory in Rajkot. This historic match was the first-ever women’s international game hosted at the city’s Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, and it marked a memorable moment for Indian cricket fans.

Before the game kicked off, young bowling all-rounder Sayali Satghare received her debut cap, handed over by captain Smriti Mandhana—a proud moment for the newcomer. Ireland won the toss and decided to bat first, putting India in the field.

Ireland’s innings saw a brilliant performance by their captain Gaby Lewis, who scored an impressive 92 runs off 129 balls, including 15 boundaries. Unfortunately, she fell just eight runs short of a well-deserved century. Another standout player for Ireland was Leah Paul, who contributed a solid 59 runs from 73 balls, hitting seven boundaries. Despite these strong individual performances, Ireland’s middle-order batters struggled to maintain momentum. By the end of their 50 overs, the team posted a total of 238/7. Coulter Reilly (15* runs) and Georgina Dempsey (6* runs) added some late runs to the scoreboard.

India’s bowling attack was led by Priya Mishra, who took two crucial wickets during her nine-over spell. Sayali Satghare also made an impact on her debut, picking up her first international wicket.

Chasing 239 for victory, India got off to a flying start thanks to their openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal. Mandhana smashed 41 runs off just 29 balls, hitting six fours and one six, while Pratika played a stellar knock of 89 runs from 96 balls, including 10 fours and one six. Together, they built a strong 70-run opening partnership, giving India the perfect platform.

However, India faced a slight hiccup when they lost a couple of quick wickets in the middle overs. Harleen Deol (20 runs) and Jemimah Rodrigues (9 runs) couldn’t stay long at the crease. But Tejal Hasabnis stepped up in style, scoring an unbeaten 53 runs off just 46 balls with nine boundaries. She formed a crucial 116-run partnership with Pratika that brought India close to victory.

In the final moments, Tejal and Richa Ghosh (8* runs off 2 balls) sealed the deal for India in just 35 overs. Their confident finish ensured a smooth win for the team.

On the bowling side for Ireland, Aimee Maguire shone with three wickets from her eight-over spell but couldn’t prevent India from reaching the target.

Pratika Rawal’s outstanding knock of 89 earned her the well-deserved title of ‘Player of the Match.’

With this win, India now leads the series 1-0. The second match will take place on January 12 at the same venue in Rajkot. Fans can look forward to more thrilling action as the series continues.

**Key Highlights:**
– Ireland Women: 238/7 in 50 overs (Gaby Lewis 92, Leah Paul 59; Priya Mishra 2/56)
– India Women: 241/4 in 35 overs (Pratika Rawal 89, Tejal Hasabnis 53*, Smriti Mandhana 41; Aimee Maguire 3/57)
– India wins by six wickets