Record century from Gaby Lewis leads Ireland to first-ever win over Sri Lanka

Ireland defeats Sri Lanka for the first time ever behind a record century from Gaby Lewis.

DUBLIN: Ireland Women defeated Sri Lanka Women by 7 runs, thanks to a century-plus innings by Gaby Lewis, who also scored their first-ever century off just 75 balls.

Lewis and Amy Hunter (9) began the innings with intent after winning the toss and choosing to bat. Within the first 15 balls, Hunter struck three boundaries; however, she was shortly out of the game after catching an over-pitched ball to mid off.

Then it was the Gaby Lewis/Orla Prendergast show, with the two towering top-order hitters hitting the ball all over the field.

In an amazing innings, Lewis hit 17 fours and two sixes, reaching her century with a guided four down via excellent leg. Though it was her first against a Full Member, this was her second T20I century.

Despite playing a supporting role, Prendergast's 31-ball 38 held equal significance as it enabled Lewis to score by keeping the scoreboard moving.

Ireland felt they had a bit more work to do to compile a competitive score after Prendergast fell in the 18th over. With Rebecca Stokell at his side now, Lewis hammered 34 off the final 15 balls. With a sixth-highest T20I team total ever at 173-3, the home team believed they had put up a score they could hold.

With Harshitha Samarawickrama (65) and Kaveesha Dilhari (51*) leading the charge, Sri Lanka's run chase made the match nervous. However, with 16 needed to win off the final over, skipper Laura Delany resorted to the dependable Arlene Kelly. Kelly duly limited the last over to eight runs, guaranteeing a momentous triumph.

Now, for a three-match ODI series that begins on Friday, the two teams will travel to Belfast.

SUMMARY OF MATCHES

Second Twenty20 International: Ireland Women vs. Sri Lanka Women, Pembroke Cricket Club, August 13, 2024

Ireland 173-3 (20 overs; O Prendergast 38, G Lewis 119*, S Gimhani 1-24)

Sri Lanka 166-7 (20 overs; O Prendergast 2-28) ; H Samarawickrama 65

Ireland prevailed by seven runs.