Ireland Star Climbs ICC Rankings: Ireland’s impressive start to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal has been reflected in the latest ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings, with several Irish players making notable gains. Leading the charge is Orla Prendergast, whose all-round brilliance continues to elevate her status on the international stage.
Orla Prendergast’s Rise Continues
The 23-year-old all-rounder delivered a standout performance in Ireland’s opening match against Papua New Guinea, producing a composed yet aggressive half-century under pressure. Prendergast struck 56 runs off 44 balls, anchoring Ireland’s innings as they posted a competitive 146/6 at the Mulpani Cricket Ground.
Her knock proved decisive, as Ireland went on to secure a convincing 41-run victory, keeping their qualification hopes for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales firmly on track.
Prendergast’s effort earned her the Player of the Match award and resulted in a significant jump in the rankings. She climbed four places to 20th on the latest T20I batters’ rankings, underlining her growing influence at the top level.
All-Round Impact Boosts Rankings Further
Prendergast’s contribution wasn’t limited to the bat. With the ball, she delivered a highly economical spell, conceding just nine runs in four overs without taking a wicket. Her tight lines and smart variations effectively stalled Papua New Guinea’s top order, helping Ireland maintain complete control of the contest.
That disciplined bowling display pushed her three places up to sixth in the T20I all-rounders’ rankings, cementing her reputation as one of the most valuable multi-dimensional players in the tournament.
Other Irish Players Make Gains
Ireland’s strong team performance also translated into ranking improvements for several teammates. Captain Gaby Lewis continued her consistent run of form, scoring 42 runs in the same match. Her innings helped her rise two spots to 16th among T20I batters.
Meanwhile, experienced seamer Arlene Kelly made an impact with the ball, claiming two wickets and moving three places up to 43rd in the T20I bowlers’ rankings.
Rankings, Rewards Beyond Ireland
The opening round of the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier saw multiple teams make strong starts, including Bangladesh, Thailand, and the Netherlands, with individual performances also rewarded in the rankings.
Thailand veteran Natthakan Chantham impressed with an unbeaten 57 in a dominant eight-wicket win over hosts Nepal, climbing two places to joint 31st in the T20I batters’ list. Bangladesh’s Sharmin Akhter also enjoyed a productive outing, scoring 63 runs against the USA in a 21-run victory, which saw her surge 13 places to 57th.
Strong Start Sets the Tone
With rankings gains reflecting on-field performances, the early stages of the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier have already delivered high-quality cricket and individual brilliance. For Ireland, the spotlight firmly remains on Orla Prendergast, whose form with both bat and ball could prove crucial as the competition intensifies and the race for World Cup qualification heats up.