Ireland have slumped to a a narrow eight-wicket defeat at the hands of hosts New Zealand in the Women's World Cup. The Irish went in to batte first and struggled to reach 99 all out off 49.4 overs, with Caitriona Beggs (31) and Nikki Squire (19) figuring in a 43-run partnership at the BIL Oval in Lincoln. New Zealand then replied with 102 for two off 24.5 overs. Opener Paula Flannery hit 49 not out and Anna O'Leary 26 to secure the victory.
Filed by Shane Murray
