Extras prove Ireland's downfall as Namibia take 3-1 series lead

IRELAND Under-19 Women were left to rue a costly lack of bowling discipline as Namibia clinched a six-wicket victory to establish a 3-1 lead in their six-match series.

Nigel Jones and Albert van der Merwe's young side appeared on course to level the series after posting an impressive 173 for eight from their 20 overs, but a remarkable 49 extras helped the hosts reach 176 for four with an over to spare.

The Irish attack conceded 29 wides and five no-balls, and no international side can expect, or indeed deserve to win a game with a stat as horrific as that.

It was a frustrating outcome for Ireland, who had recovered from a dreadful start with the bat. Skipper Alice Tector fell first ball, while Millie Spence made five, before Rebecca Lowe and Niamh Lowry provided the backbone of the innings.

Lowe struck four boundaries and a six in her 43 from 41 deliveries, while Lowry made a fluent 41 from 33 balls, including five fours. Genevieve Morrissey maintained her good form with an unbeaten 21, while Katy West chipped in with 13 from eight deliveries.

Mekelaye Mwatile was Namibia's outstanding bowler, claiming three for 22.

Ireland would have fancied their chances of defending such an imposing total, but the hosts were given a helping hand by the generosity of the Irish bowling. Bianca Manuel made 38 and Hileni David 12 before Mwatile took control with a powerful 42 from 27 deliveries. She shared a decisive third-wicket stand of 77 with Kayleen Green, who finished unbeaten on 33.

Penny Speer was Ireland's most successful bowler with two for 30, while Aisling Lawlor conceded just 21 from her four overs. However, the extras ultimately proved decisive, leaving Ireland facing an uphill battle to rescue the series with just two matches remaining.

Those will be played on Saturday as part of a double-header.

Summary Score: Ireland U19 Women 173/8 (20 overs; R Lowe 43, N Lowry 41, M Mwatile 3-22) lost to Capricorn Eagles A 176/4 (19 overs; M Mwatile 42, B Manuel 38, K Green 33*, P Speer 2-30) by six wickets. Namibia lead series 3-1.