LAHORE: Pakistan triumphed over Ireland by 38 runs in the opening match of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday, thanks to strong performances from Aliya Riaz, Sidra Amin, and Diana Baig. Batting first, Pakistan posted a modest total of 217 in 49 overs. After a shaky start, with opener Gull Feroza dismissed early for just four runs, Sidra Amin and Muneeba Ali led the recovery with a 77-run partnership for the second wicket. Muneeba was dismissed for 32, but Sidra continued to anchor the innings, adding 72 runs with Aliya Riaz. Sidra scored 51 off 112 balls before being dismissed in the 36th over. Aliya followed soon after, top-scoring with 52 runs from 58 balls, including four fours and a six. However, the lower order collapsed, and Pakistan lost their final six wickets for just 42 runs. Ireland’s Jane Maguire was the standout bowler, taking three wickets for 33 runs in 10 overs, while Arlene Kelly and Cara Murray claimed two wickets each. In response, Ireland’s chase of 218 faltered as they were bowled out for 179 in 44 overs. Despite solid contributions from captain Gaby Lewis and wicketkeeper Amy Hunter, who both scored 44 runs, the middle-order collapsed following their dismissals by Nashra Sandhu. Sandhu dismissed both set batters in quick succession, triggering a collapse that saw Ireland lose their final seven wickets for just 66 runs. Orla Prendergast was the only other notable contributor with a 37 from 53 balls. Pakistan’s Diana Baig led the bowling attack with four wickets, supported by Sandhu’s three wickets and Sadia Iqbal’s two. Baig was named Player of the Match for her match-winning performance. In other qualifiers, Scotland secured an 11-run victory over West Indies to kick off their campaign.