Ireland win fifth straight match and reset sights on global qualifier

Ireland has definitively qualified after seven-wicket victory against Netherlands

Ireland celebrate taking a wicket against the Netherlands in the European Qualifier in Rotterdam. Picture: ICC Media

Arlene Kelly returned her second career five-wicket haul in T20Is and captain Gaby Lewis led by the front in the run chase with a half-century as Ireland Women brushed past Netherlands at the European Qualifier on Tuesday.

Losing the toss in Rotterdam, Lewis initially rued the missed chance to bat first on what looked a flat batting track – however, that disappointment soon turned to delight as the Irish bowlers struck early and restricted the Netherlands to 36-1 in the first powerplay.