Cross stars as England Women open ODI series with win over Ireland

Kate Cross' career-best figures saw England Women secure a four-wicket victory over Ireland in Stormont.

Captaining her country for the first time, Cross took a six-wicket haul and 38 not out in her side’s opening ODI match.

A youthful England team was made up of five debutants.

Hannah Baker and Ryana MacDonald-Gay, who made their full England debuts, took their maiden international wickets while Lauren Filer dismissed captain Gaby Lewis.

Paige Scholfield also made her full debut while Mady Villiers and Hollie Armitage earned their first caps in ODI cricket.

Orla Prendergast top scored for the hosts with 76 with Amy Hunter and Leah Paul contributing as Ireland recorded 210 in the first innings.

Openers Tammy Beaumont and Emma Lamb were dismissed early.

Armitage and Scholfield impressed posting a third-wicket stand of 62, before Cross and Bess Heath recorded 55 to help England reach their target with 15.1 overs to spare.

The two teams meet again in the second of three ODIs at the same venue on Monday (9 September).

Cross said: "We're really pleased with today's victory.

"I had a little bit more to think about with captaincy but it made me take responsibility with our five debutants.

"We haven't had loads of time together but they did so well to rally around each other, it was a great effort."

Kate Cross' post-match audio file is available to listen to and download here.

Ireland Women v England Women One Day International series fixtures

Saturday 7 September: Ireland v England first ODI, Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont, Belfast – England won by four wickets
Monday 9 September: Ireland v England second ODI, Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont, Belfast
Wednesday 11 September: Ireland v England third ODI, Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont, Belfast

Ireland Women v England Women T20 International series fixtures
Saturday 14 September: Ireland v England Women 1st IT20, Castle Avenue, Dublin
Sunday 15 September: Ireland v England Women 2nd IT20, Castle Avenue, Dublin