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Rain takes World Cup opening game honours

It was a point each against England U19s Women

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JOHOR, Malaysia – Ireland were impressive in the field, but rain spoiled any attempt at England’s total in this Group B encounter at the ICC U19 Women’s World Cup.

Ireland captain Niamh MacNulty made no hesitation in bowling first after winning a delayed toss due to a wet outfield from overnight rain.

For the fielding side, there were dark overhead conditions, something of a breeze and a slightly slower outfield to work with.

England however got off to a brisk start with Davina Perrin in particular looking especially threatening. An opening wicket from Kia McCartney broke momentum, then a smart run out by Annabel Squires and Niamh MacNulty saw the end of Perrin.

Ireland started to look very sharp in the field, and pressure eventually told with a wicket for Lara McBride first ball after drinks, thanks to a very well taken catch by Freya Sargent in the ring.

A missed stumping chance by Abbi Harrison off Ellie McGee changed the run of momentum, but Harrison very quickly rectified this with two much harder stumpings in the 14th and 16th overs, both again off McGee.

England soon began to counter attack in final overs. At this point an intruder, a very small snake, attempted to cause a break in momentum in the 19th over but was soon safely escorted off the field.

In response, Ireland lost Freya Sargent in the first over run out without facing a delivery and then Alice Walsh similarly on a very tight run.

Rain had briefly made an appearance when Ireland went to bat but then passed as soon as it had arrived. Another shower in the fourth over which eventually proved fatal.

The outfield had now taken on quite a bit of moisture meaning the match couldn’t restart before the cut-off time. Ireland U19s Women next play USA U19s Women on Monday.