LAHORE: Nida Dar’s all-round performance and Ayesha Naseem’s quick-fire 25 helped Pakistan to a six-wicket win over Ireland in the second T20I here at the Gaddafi Stadium on Monday, leveling the three-match series 1-1. The series decider will be played on Wednesday, 16 November.
Chasing 119 to win in 17 overs, after the start of the play was delayed due to rain, the opening pair of Javeria Khan and Muneeba Ali provided a 26-run start off 19 balls before Muneeba fell to Arlene Kelly for 10-ball 12. Captain Bismah (2 off 5 balls) was next to go with 29 runs on the board.
Javeria was joined by Nida and the two most experienced batters added 46 runs for the third wicket. Both Javeria (35, 39b, 3×4) and Nida (28, 25b, 1×4,1×6) ran themselves out and Pakistan were four down with 97 runs on the board.
The right-handed Ayesha struck two sixes and one four in her unbeaten knock of 25 from 12 balls, while Aliya Riaz struck two boundaries and returned unbeaten on 11 off seven balls. Both batters helped the hosts achieved the target with one over to spare.
Earlier, after opting to field first, Pakistan bowlers kept Ireland batters in check as the tourists managed to score 118 for seven in their allotted 17 overs. Opening batter Amy Hunter top-scored for her side with a 39-ball 36, which included three fours. Orla Prendergast who was declared player of the match in the previous game managed to score 20 0ff 17 balls, hitting three fours.
For Pakistan, spinners Nida and Nashra Sundhu bagged two wickets apiece.
Scores in brief:
Pakistan beat Ireland by six wickets
Ireland 118-7, 17 overs (Amy Hunter 36, Orla Prendergast 20; Nida Dar 2-19, Nashra Sundhu 2-21)
Pakistan 121-4, 16 overs (Javeria Khan 35, Nida Dar 28, Ayesha Naseem 25 not out)
Player of the match – Nida Dar (Pakistan)
