Ireland Women claimed a 12-run victory over Bangladesh Women in the first T20I of their three-match series in Sylhet on Thursday, setting the tone for an exciting series. Electing to bat first, Ireland posted a competitive total of 169 for 5, powered by a Leah Paul, who remained unbeaten on 79 off just 45 balls. Gaby Lewis complemented her with 60 off 42 deliveries, the duo combining for a 100-run stand for the third wicket that laid the foundation for Ireland’s innings. Bangladesh’s bowlers struggled for consistency, with Nahida Akter emerging as the most economical bowler, conceding 20 in 4 ovets, while Jahanara Alam, Fariha Trisna, and Jannatul Ferdus picked up a wicket apiece. In response, Bangladesh got off to a flying start, with openers Dilara Akter (49 off 41) and Sobhana Mostary (46 off 35) adding a solid 103-run partnership. Their aggressive approach in the powerplay— 56 runs without loss— kept the hosts ahead of the required rate. Read: Rashid, Nabi call for reversal of Taliban ban on women’s medical education However, the middle order faltered against the disciplined bowling of Orla Prendergast, who bagged three for 24, and Arlene Kelly, who scalped three for 22, leaving the chase in tatters. Aimee Maguire chipped in with a crucial wicket as the pressure mounted on Bangladesh’s lower order. Despite a late cameo from Sharmin Akhter, 23 off 13, the hosts fell short, finishing at 157 for 7 in their 20 overs. Leah Paul was named Player of the Match for her match-winning innings, which included ten boundaries and two sixes. The result puts Ireland Women ahead 1-0 in the series.

The Ireland Women’s cricket team is keen to bounce back as they continue their tour of Bangladesh for a three-match ODI and T20 series. On Thursday evening, the players took a break from the competitive grind to attend a reception hosted by Masud Jamil Khan, the Honorary Consul of Ireland in Bangladesh, at his residence in Dhaka. The reception, which also welcomed the Bangladesh Women’s cricket team, was a relaxed affair with players from both sides mingling, sharing stories, and enjoying the camaraderie. Bangladesh, which won the first ODI earlier this week, spent the evening unwinding and celebrating the game’s spirit. Masud Jamil Khan and his wife Kate Jaro Khan hosted the event and warmly welcomed the guests at the reception. Masud Jamil Khan, in his remarks, shared his excitement at hosting the Irish team. “It has been my dream to welcome the Ireland cricket team to my home,” he said. He also expressed his pleasure in hosting the Bangladesh team, noting the growing bond between the two nations through cricket. Enayetullah Khan, the Chief Editor of UNB, also greeted the teams and spoke of his childhood dream of becoming a Test cricketer. Though the dream did not materialise, he shared his deep admiration for cricket and wished both teams success. Enayetullah Khan's family members, including his wife Tehmina Enayet and his daughter and UNB Executive Editor Nahar Khan, were also present at the reception, adding a personal touch to the evening. The players arrived at the venue in the evening and were soon seen chatting and exchanging ideas. Jahanara Alam, Bangladesh’s star pacer, was spotted in a lively conversation with Ireland’s captain, Gaby Lewis, as others enjoyed the food and light-hearted conversations. Read: Sri Lanka all out for record-low 42 in Durban cricket test Nigar Sultana Jyoti, Bangladesh’s captain, appeared relaxed with her teammates, including Sharmin Akhter, whose match-winning 96 in the first ODI helped secure a dominant victory for the hosts in the series opener. “It’s been an amazing experience so far,” Beth Healy, the manager of the Ireland Women’s team, told UNB. “The hospitality and security arrangement has been exceptional, and connecting with the Bangladesh team off the field has been wonderful.” In an exclusive conversation, Gaby reflected on the challenges of playing in sub-continental conditions. “We knew coming here would mean dealing with alien conditions,” she said. “The pitches are spin-heavy, and it’s something we’re still adapting to. But every game in this championship matters, and we’re determined to improve in the remaining matches.”