Pakistan beat Ireland by 128 runs in the first ODI to take a one-nil lead in the series thanks to Sidra Amin’s career-best 176 runs.
Captain National Team Bisma decided to bat first after winning the toss, both openers Muniba and Sidra added a record 221 runs for the first wicket. He had earlier broken the opening record of 158 which was set against Sri Lanka earlier this year.
Muniba completed his maiden century in the 33rd over of the innings off 108 balls. She was dismissed for 107 off 114 balls, which included 10 fours and two sixes.
Sidra was joined by Alia Riaz, the duo put on 97 off 67 balls for the second wicket. Alia bounced back after scoring 29 off 28 balls, which included two fours and a six. Debutant Sadaf Shams was bowled by Arlene Kelly for 3 runs off six balls.
Sidra made Pakistan’s highest individual score of 176, his unbeaten innings included 20 fours and a six off 151 balls, helping the national team score 335 runs in 50 overs. Earlier, Pakistan had the record of 280 runs against Ireland.
Chasing a huge target of 336 runs in reply, the visitors were bowled out for 207 runs in the last over. Ireland captain Laura Delaney top scored, scoring 69 off 92 balls.
Pakistan’s off-spinner Nida Dar was the most successful bowler taking three wickets for 34 runs. Fatima Sana and Nashra Sindhu took two wickets each. Fast bowling all-rounders Alia and Kainat Imtiaz took one wicket each.
Sidra was adjudged the man of the match for his brilliant century.
The second ODI between Pakistan and Ireland will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, November 6.
