Captain Kathryn Bryce delivered a superb all-round performance as Scotland defeated Ireland by 39 runs in the Super Six stage of the Women’s T20 World Cup qualifier in Nepal.
Strong batting sets challenging target
Scotland posted an impressive 160-5 from 20 overs, led by Sarah Bryce’s 47 and Kathryn Bryce’s 30 from 23 balls. Katherine Fraser added 36, while Megan McColl finished strongly with an unbeaten 27 from just 15 deliveries.
Ireland’s Jane Maguire was the standout bowler, claiming 2-20 from four overs, but Alana Dalzell conceded 44 runs in three overs.
Early breakthroughs put Ireland under pressure
Kathryn Bryce made an immediate impact with the ball, dismissing Christina Coulter Reilly for a duck in the third ball of the innings. She went on to take four wickets for 21 runs, removing three of Ireland’s top five batters.
Her spell gave Scotland early control and kept Ireland behind the required run rate.
Lewis fights lone battle
Ireland captain Gaby Lewis tried to steady the chase with a patient 41. She received brief support from Leah Paul (15), Rebecca Stokell (12) and Louise Little (17), but none could build a substantial partnership.
Katherine Fraser supported Bryce well, conceding only 17 runs in her four overs.
Scotland tighten World Cup qualification hopes
Ireland were bowled out for 121 in 19.2 overs, falling well short of the target. The victory lifts Scotland to third place in the Super Six table with four points.
They can now qualify for this summer’s Women’s T20 World Cup in England by defeating Bangladesh in Kirtipur on Friday. Ireland, currently fourth with two points, must beat the Netherlands to remain in contention.
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