A day after her match-winning performance that thrust her into the spotlight, Alana Dalzell is still processing the enormity of her role in Ireland’s dramatic final-ball triumph over England in their one-day international on Wednesday.
With Ireland needing eight runs from the last six balls, their hopes of pulling off a major upset seemed to fade after losing three wickets in consecutive deliveries. That left the home side requiring a boundary off the final ball to seal an unforgettable victory in Belfast. Dalzell, batting at number nine, rose to the occasion, hitting a four and triggering wild celebrations among the Irish team.
Her clutch shot not only clinched the win but also secured Ireland’s first victory over England since 2001, etching Dalzell's name into the annals of Irish cricket history.
Reflecting on the moment, the 23-year-old told, "People have said it’s a story I’ll always be able to tell, but I don’t think it has fully sunk in yet."
She added that it might take time to truly appreciate the significance of the moment. “It’s one of those things you’ll look back on and really understand years later.”
Dalzell recalled the incredible realisation: "It took a moment to sink in—'We’ve just beaten England.' It was surreal."