Ireland in second T20I too strong for Orange women
Published at 16 August, 2023Although the Dutch women kept their backs straight against the Irish in the second T20I on Wednesday, the visitors once again proved too strong. The world number ten outclassed the number sixteen: 148-82.
The Netherlands opted for fielding after winning the toss. With some quick boundaries from Gaby Lewis, things looked ominous for the Orange. Robine Rijke, however, outplayed the Irish superstar with a beauty that came back nicely (27/1/4.2).
The Orange looked more energetic than on Monday and saw an opportunity to curb the Irish's scoring drive with good bowling and reasonable fielding. Youngsters Phebe Molkenboer and Merel Dekeling, the latter of whom made her debut on Monday together with Carlijn van Koolwijk, bowled well and were both rewarded. Carlijn van Koolwijk picked up a sharp catch at mid wicket off Molkenboer and tospcorer Amy Hunter (36) saw a top edge disappear into the hands of keeper De Leede off Dekeling's bowling. The fact that the Netherlands restricted Ireland to 148/6 was a great achievement. Robine Rijke took 3-37.
Netherlands innings
Batting, however, the Netherlands – just like with the first T20I – came up short. Numbers four through eight combined went for nine runs and with a faltering middle order, a successful run chase was not possible. It was a pity that the Netherlands were all out 25 balls before the twenty overs expired. The wicket of number 3 Babette de Leede (21) was the last to fall. Kelly 3-11, Delany 3-5; The Netherlands were all out for 82.
