Sat Jan 11 00:53:46 UTC 2025: ## India Women Thrash Ireland in ODI Series Opener
**Rajkot, India:** India Women secured a convincing 6-wicket victory over Ireland Women in the first One Day International (ODI) of their series at Rajkot. Chasing a target of 240, India reached the finish line in 34.3 overs, thanks to impressive half-centuries from Pratika Rawal (89 runs, including 10 fours and a six) and Tejal Hasabnis (53 runs, including 9 fours).
Ireland, electing to bat first, posted a challenging total of 239. Captain Gaby Lewis top-scored with a brilliant 92 (15 fours), while Lee Paul contributed a valuable 59 (7 fours). However, the Irish innings suffered early setbacks, losing wickets at regular intervals. Their top order struggled, with Sara Forbes (9), Una Raymond (5), and Orla Prendergast (9) failing to make significant contributions.
India’s chase got off to a strong start with a solid partnership between captain Smriti Mandhana (41 runs, including 6 fours and a six) and Rawal. Hasabnis’s unbeaten half-century further cemented India’s victory. Richa Ghosh provided support with an unbeaten 8 runs.
India’s bowling attack was equally impressive, with Priya Punia leading the charge, taking 2 wickets for 56 runs in 9 overs, including a maiden. Titas Sadhu and Sayali Satghare each claimed a wicket, while Deepti Sharma also contributed a wicket.
The win marks a strong start for India in the series, showcasing their batting prowess and bowling depth. The remaining matches promise to be equally exciting.
First Piper 