ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Muneeba Ali hits landmark century as Pakistan defeat Ireland

The left-hander propelled Pakistan to a total of 165 for five after they were sent in to bat by Ireland. In reply, Ireland were bowled out for 95. Nashra Sandhu claimed career-best figures of four for 18 to hand Pakistan a resounding win .The slightly-built Muneeba had not previously scored a half-century in 44 T20 internationals although she made a one-day international hundred against the same opponents in Lahore last November.Muneeba and veteran Nida Dar (33) shared a third-wicket partnership of 101.

Muneeba faced 68 balls and hit 14 fours in her landmark innings.Ireland beat Pakistan 2-1 in a T20 series in Pakistan in November but were outplayed in a match between two sides who lost their opening World Cup matches.Ireland lost opening batters Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis inside the first five overs.Orla Prendergast made a spirited 31 off 21 balls and Eimear Richardson hit powerfully to make 28 off 17 deliveries but Ireland never threatened to get near the Pakistan total.Sandhu dismissed both the leading scorers and was the main destroyer of the Ireland batting.(With AFP inputs)