BD women suffer 12-run defeat against Ireland in T20

Ireland Women secured a thrilling 12-run victory over Bangladesh Women in the first T20I of their three-match series in Sylhet on Thursday.

Batting first, Ireland posted a challenging total of 169/5, thanks to Leah Paul's unbeaten 79 off 45 balls and Gaby Lewis’s 60 off 42. Their 100-run third-wicket partnership set the foundation for the innings.

Bangladesh made a strong start with openers Dilara Akter (49 off 41) and Sobhana Mostary (46 off 35), putting up a 103-run stand. However, disciplined bowling from Orla Prendergast (3/24) and Arlene Kelly (3/22) saw Bangladesh falter in the middle overs.

Despite a late push from Sharmin Akhter, who scored 23 off 13, Bangladesh fell short, finishing at 157/7. Leah Paul was named Player of the Match for her standout performance. Ireland leads the series 1-0.