Cricket

Ireland's women's cricket team secured a thrilling five-wicket victory over England in the second T20I at Clontarf, leveling the series 1-1. The match mirrored the dramatic conclusion of the third ODI last week, with a crucial fielding error proving costly for England.Orla Prendergast was the star of the show for Ireland, smashing an impressive 80 runs off just 51 deliveries. Her innings provided the foundation for the chase, with Gaby Lewis and Leah Paul offering solid support. England's inexperienced bowling attack struggled to contain Prendergast's onslaught, and with seven runs needed from seven balls, Ireland seemed destined for victory.However, England captain Kate Cross produced a valiant effort, dismissing Amy Hunter and Prendergast in quick succession. With two runs required from two balls and a new batter at the crease, the momentum shifted towards England.But in a moment of misfortune, Mady Villiers, who had earlier claimed two wickets in two balls, fumbled a return catch from Christina Coulter Reilly. The error allowed Ireland to scramble the winning runs and secure a memorable victory.Earlier, England had posted a competitive 169 for 8 after being asked to bat first. Bryony Smith and Tammy Beaumont provided a solid start with an opening stand of 44, while Paige Scholfield contributed 34 runs. Prendergast's two wickets in the middle overs slowed England's progress, and a brace of run-outs in the final over further dented their total."I knew if I got myself in and got a start, I would convert and accelerate towards the back end," said Prendergast after the match. "It was our last game of the summer. To put in a really good performance to finish to show how good a side we are was what motivated us."Cross acknowledged Ireland's deserved victory, but expressed disappointment in England's inability to close out the match. "We've kept ourselves in the game and gave ourselves a chance to win," she said. "But Mady's overs and tight finishes seem to be a theme of the week."