DUBLIN: Ireland produced their highest successful run chase in T20 Internationals to defeat Pakistan by seven wickets in the third match of the women’s tri-series at Castle Avenue in Dublin on Sunday.

Despite a commanding batting display from Pakistan, led by opener Muneeba Ali’s fluent half-century, the hosts overhauled the 177-run target with five balls to spare, thanks to impressive knocks from Amy Hunter and Rebecca Stokell.

After electing to bat, Pakistan made a brisk start through openers Muneeba and Gull Feroza, who added 44 runs in just under five overs. Feroza struck six fours in a rapid 32 off 15 deliveries before her departure ended the opening stand.

Muneeba continued to dominate, punishing anything loose and reaching 65 from 41 balls with eight fours and three sixes. Alongside Saira Jabeen, she rebuilt after the loss of Ayesha Zafar, adding 88 runs for the third wicket to put Pakistan in a strong position.

At 145-3 in the 16th over, Pakistan appeared set for a total in excess of 190, but Ireland fought back through disciplined bowling at the death. Muneeba fell to Alana Dalzell, while Saira’s 36-ball 33 ended shortly afterwards. Captain Fatima Sana contributed 21 off 14 balls, but Pakistan managed only 31 runs in the final four overs to finish on 176-6. Ava Canning was Ireland’s most successful bowler with 2-35.

Ireland’s reply was anchored by wicket-keeper-batter Hunter, who set the tone with a confident 56 from 44 deliveries. After sharing a 44-run opening stand with Dalzell, Hunter added another 51 runs with Stokell, keeping the required rate under control.

Pakistan briefly clawed their way back when Ayesha dismissed Hunter, but Stokell remained unfazed. Playing only her second T20I innings at number three, she compiled an unbeaten 60 off 42 balls, striking seven boundaries and registering her maiden T20I half-century.

The decisive blow came from skipper Orla Prendergast, whose aggressive 33 from 17 balls featured a succession of boundaries in a match-turning 77-run partnership with Stokell.

Although Prendergast was trapped leg-before by Ayesha in the penultimate over, Ireland required little more than formalities, with Stokell hitting the winning runs as the hosts reached 177-3 in 19.1 overs.

Pakistan next face West Indies in the tri-series on Wednesday.

Published in Dawn, June 2nd, 2026