Arlene Kelly to the rescue as Ireland pip Sri Lanka in Belfast
Arlene Kelly claimed three wickets to inspire Ireland to a 15-run one-day international win over new Women's Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in Belfast - in the process wrapping up the three-match series with one match to spare.
Ireland - who won Friday's first ODI thanks to a century from captain Orla Prendergast - posted 255 for five from their 50 overs after a superb 81 by Leah Paul, but it did not appear enough when Harshitha Samarawickrama was on the charge for the tourists.
Samarawickrama eventually fell for 105 and it sparked a dramatic collapse, with Sri Lanka slumping from 210 for four to 240 all out.
Paul was one of three Irish batters to pass fifty, with Amy Hunter (66) and Rebecca Stokell (53 not out) making key contributions.
While Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu fell cheaply in reply, Samarawickrama looked set to lead her team to victory before she was run out and Kelly picked up two wickets in the 44th over, which further turned the tide.
The seamer then bowled Udeshika Prabodhani to clinch a memorable victory.
SCORECARD
Ireland 255-5 (50 overs; L Paul 81, A Hunter 66, R Stokell 53*; K Dilhari 2-35)
Sri Lanka 240 (48 overs; H Samarawickrama 105; A Kelly 3-41)