Ireland secured a hard-fought 12-run victory against Bangladesh in the first T20 of the three-match series, delivering an impressive all-round performance to take a 1-0 lead. 

Earlier in the day, the Ireland Women's team put up a strong batting performance to post 169-5 against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Leah Paul led the charge with 45-ball 79 not out, laced with 10 fours and two sixes as the Irish side won the toss and elected to bat first. Captain Gaby Lewis played her part well to give the side a solid start with 60 off 42, sending the ball across the ropes seven times.

Jahanara Alam, Fariha Trishna, Nahida Akter and Jannatul Ferdous took one wicket apiece for the hosts.

In response, Bangladesh could manage 157 for 7 while Dilara Aktar scored 49 off 41 balls, Sobhana Mostary 41 of 35 balls and Sharmin Akhter took 23 off 13 balls. 

Arlene Kelly and Orla Prendergast picked up three wickets each and Aimee Maguire got one wicket.

BDST: 1738 HRS, DEC 05, 2024
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