Bangladesh v Ireland: Ireland win first T20 in Bangladesh series

Ireland beat Bangladesh by 12 runs in the first game of a three-match T20 international series in Sylhet.

Ireland won the toss and registered an impressive 169-5 after a century partnership between Leah Paul and captain Gaby Lewis.

Orla Prendergast then took three wickets and Arlene Kelly two as Ireland produced a terrific comeback with the ball after the hosts’ rapid start in their reply.

The second match of the series takes place on Saturday with the final game next Monday.

Ireland lost the one-day international series between the teams 3-0 earlier this month, with a side that had an average age of just under 23.

Having decided to bat first, Ireland lost Amy Hunter (10) early in their innings.

Her fellow opener Lewis, who replaced Laura Delany as Ireland captain before this tour, hit 60 from 42 balls before she was bowled by Fariha Islam Trisna having shared a 107-run stand with Paul.

It was Paul who stole the show for Ed Joyce’s side, finishing on 79 not out off 45 balls – her first T20 half-century – including two sixes and 10 fours.

Prendergast and Delany both fell cheaply but Ireland’s total meant Bangladesh needed to produce their highest T20 run chase to win.