As the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2025 are just a few days away, all eyes turn to the warm-up clash between Ireland and Thailand — two teams eager to fine-tune their form and strategies. With both sides showing flashes of brilliance in their previous outings, this encounter promises to be a competitive curtain-raiser before the real battle begins. For Ireland, it’s a chance to test their depth and adaptability, while Thailand will look to carry forward their spirited style of play and build momentum heading into the tournament.
Squads:
Ireland Women’s Cricket Team
Gaby Lewis (C), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Laura Delany, Sarah Forbes, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Kia McCartney, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast
Thailand Women’s Cricket Team
Naruemol Chaiwai (C), Nattaya Boochatham, Nattakan Chantam, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, Chanida Sutthiruang, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Rosenanee Kanoh, Suleeporn Laomi, Thipatcha Putthawong, Suwanan Khiaoto, Phannita Maya, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Nannaphat Chaihan, Chayanisa Phengpaen
Players to watch out:
Laura Delany
The seasoned captain of the Ireland women’s team, Laura Delany is a reliable middle-order hitter. She is an all-round player who contributes vital overs with the ball, making her an invaluable member of the team. In ODIs, she has amassed 1162 runs at a strike rate of 60 in 59 innings and taken 30 wickets at an economy rate of 4.78.
Amy Hunter
Amy Hunter, a gifted 19-year-old batter and wicketkeeper, is renowned for her stroke play. She has the temperament to perform well under stress and can alter the game with quick runs when necessary. Her keen wicketkeeping abilities also provide the team more balance. She has 776 runs to her credit in 31 innings in ODIs at a strike rate of 83 which includes 1 century.
Nattakan Chantam
Nattakan Chantam has continued scintillating form at the top of the order, scoring 473 runs in 9 matches at a staggering average of 52.55 and strike rate of 71.34. The 29-year-old opener who scored a century on ODI debut is rapidly becoming a consistent presence for Thailand. With a best score of 102, Chantam’s calm head and ability to control innings will be vital as Thailand take on Scotland in their final warm-up match.
Nattaya Boochatham
Nattaya Boochatham has been Thailand’s leading performer with the ball, as she continues to bowl with accurate right-arm off-breaks. Boochatham’s impressive record of 10 wickets in 8 matches, including best figures of 3/7, with an incredible economy of 2.78, demonstrates her ability to put pressure on batters and stifle run scoring. This will be pivotal to Thailand’s plans with their warm-up game against Ireland.
Pitch:
In the early overs, the surface usually offers decent bounce and carry, enabling quick bowlers to get some movement out of the new ball. However, because the pitch offers turn and grip, spinners are likely to be used as the game goes on. Early settling in allows batters to score freely, but patience and shot selection are key. In order to give their bowlers, the opportunity to take advantage of the situation later in the game, teams that win the toss may choose to bat first and build up an adequate score.
Weather:
The weather in Lahore is predicted to be sunny and bright, which would be ideal for cricket. There is no risk of rain during the match hours, and the temperature is expected to hover in the early 30s. It is anticipated that the humidity will be low, which will provide both sides with optimal playing conditions.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Amy Hunter, Gaby Lewis, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Laura Delany, Nattaya Boochatham, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Naruemol Chaiwai, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Arlene Kelly, Sunida Chaturongrattana
Match details:
Date – April 7, 2025
Time – 10:00 AM IST
Venue – Lahore City Cricket Association Ground, Pakistan
Broadcast – T.B.C.
Loves all things female cricket
Related Articles
