Ireland secured their first one-day international win against England since 2001 in a thrilling contest, overcoming a dramatic collapse to win by three wickets in Belfast.
In a rain-affected match reduced to 22 overs per side, Ireland was set a target of 155. Despite needing just 18 runs from the final 18 balls with eight wickets in hand, England clawed their way back into contention, thanks to Lauren Filer, who claimed two key wickets in the 19th over.
The final over, bowled by Mady Villiers, saw high tension unfold. Una Raymond-Hoey was run out, and both Alice Tector and Jane Maguire fell to first-ball ducks, leaving Ireland requiring four runs from the final delivery. With all eyes on number-nine batter Alana Dalzell, she calmly struck the ball to the boundary, securing the victory after England’s Hollie Armitage misjudged a fielding chance at long-on.
Earlier, England’s innings had started promisingly, with opener Tammy Beaumont scoring 52 from 42 balls. However, a collapse followed, with England losing six wickets for just 46 runs. Spinner Aimee Maguire led the charge for Ireland, taking a career-best 5-19 and dismantling England’s middle and lower order. England was bowled out for 153 in 20.5 overs.
Ireland’s win came just two days after being dismissed for 45 in the previous match, showing impressive resilience with both bat and ball despite their inexperience. Although England won the series 2-1, Ireland’s performance in this final ODI was a remarkable response.
The two sides will now face off in a two-match T20 series, beginning on Saturday in Clontarf, Dublin.