Sophia Dunkley struck a superb 119 at Worcester to secure a 114-run victory over Ireland and seal a 3-0 one-day international series sweep for the hosts.
Charlie Dean’s side posted 291 before dismissing their visitors for 177 with more than five overs remaining. Dunkley shared a 73-run opening stand with Maia Bouchier, who contributed 39.
The home batting line-up suffered a late collapse, losing six wickets for 31 runs after reaching 260 for four. Management used this series to test fringe players, a rotation policy mirroring the recent tactical bowling shifts seen across all formats.
Leg-spinner Cara Murray took four for 56 to restrict the final total. In reply, Amy Hunter top-scored with 39, but the required run-rate quickly escalated out of control. Mady Villiers and Lauren Filer claimed three wickets each.
Dunkley Accelerates To Century
The player of the series reached her half-century from 63 deliveries before accelerating to pass three figures 37 balls later. Orla Prendergast eventually caught the centurion on the boundary.
“It was just great to get the series win,” Dunkley said. “It was a bit tricky at the start. A little slow. They bowled really well with the new ball.”
The national squad next prepare for the Champions Trophy in February. Administrators are currently negotiating tour dates against the West Indies and Sri Lanka, while broader international scheduling remains complex following future tour programme changes.
