Laura Delany struck a second half-century in as many innings in Lahore yesterday as Ireland wrapped up their preparations for the 50-overs World Cup qualifier with a confidence-boosting seven-wicket victory over Thailand.

The Girls in Green start their campaign proper against hosts Pakistan tomorrow with former captain Delany in superb nick after striking 77 not out from 72 balls to follow her unbeaten 67 in Saturday’s loss to the West Indies.

The top two from a six-team round robin will qualify for the World Cup finals later in the year, and Ireland will need to overcome two of Pakistan, Bangladesh and the West Indies, as well as beating Associate sides Scotland and Thailand, if they are to go through.

The batting looks in good order with captain Gaby Lewis, Leah Paul, Sarah Forbes and Louise Little also make useful scores in the two games, and leg-spinner Cara Murray returned to Irish colours with three wickets in the first game.

Meanwhile, Pembroke youngster Dan Murphy hit 90 in Harare to help Ireland U19s to 235 all out after an early collapse but Zimbabwe still charged to a two-wicket victory and a winning 3-0 lead in the best-of-five 50-overs series.