Match 13 of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: New Zealand vs. Ireland
In a close contest during the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton, defending champions New Zealand (NZ W) won by four runs against Ireland (IRE W) on June 19.
The match started with Ireland choosing to bowl first after winning the toss. This decision paid off as they quickly dismissed the White Ferns for just 10 runs, with three wickets falling in the fourth over. However, captain Melie Kerr (30 off 24), Brooke Halliday (34 off 37), Izzy Sharp (36 off 28), and the seasoned Suzie Bates (19* off 12) helped New Zealand reach 140-6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Irish batters faced a manageable target but lost their first wicket early in the second over. Gaby Lewis and Orla Prendergast then steadied the innings, keeping the chase on track until the 18th over. Once they were both out, New Zealand regained control, with Bates successfully defending 15 runs in the final over.
Top Batting Performance: Orla Prendergast
The standout batting performance came from Orla Prendergast, despite her team’s loss in a nail-biting finish. On a challenging pitch in Southampton, the Irish all-rounder scored 59 runs off 53 balls, hitting five fours and one six. Although she played well, her middle order teammates struggled to capitalize on her solid innings.