Mohali: Women registered a marvelous 93-run victory over Ireland Women in their World T20 Group A battle on Friday. Skipper Suzie Bates led from the front with a accelerated half-century as New Zealand. After taking quench against Sri Lanka, New Zealand posted a competitive 177 for three after opting to bat and then restricted Ireland to 84 for five in their allotted 20 overs at the PCA stadium here.
The two added 44 runs for third wicket to steer the team past 150-run mark. Captain bates continued in the able company Sara in 14 not out. Chasing 178 for victory, Ireland were never in the fray as they kept on losing wickets at regular interval and failed to reach even the three-figure mark.
Captain Isobel Joyce fought a lone battle for Ireland, scoring 33-ball 28. But all others came a cropper against the Kiwi bowlers. 14-year-old Gaby Lewis (16 not out) remained unbeaten, even as Ireland started their World Twenty20 campaign on a losing note. Spinner Erin Bermingham was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers with figures of two for 17, while Morna Nielsen, Leigh Kasperek and Devine took wicket apiece.
Meanwhile, the match was virtually played before empty stands with crowds giving the event a miss.