Koge, Denmark – In an intense clash, Denmark Women claimed a narrow victory over Austria Women, winning by 5 wickets with 4 balls remaining in the Women’s T20I Quadrangular Series at Koge Cricket Club on September 14, 2024. Mallika Pathirannehelage of Austria was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance, scoring 22 (21)* and taking 1/23 with the ball.
Austria’s Innings:
After being sent in to bat, Austria Women struggled early, losing wickets at regular intervals. Jo-Antoinette Stiglitz provided stability with a crucial knock of 37 off 26 balls, hitting six boundaries to help Austria post a modest total of 110/6. Mallika Pathirannehelage played a valuable late innings knock, remaining unbeaten on 22 off 21 balls.
Denmark’s bowlers kept the pressure on with tight spells from Luise Holmgaard, who impressed with figures of 2/4 in 2 overs, and Nita Dalgaard, who took 1/21 from her full quota of 4 overs.
Denmark’s Chase:
Chasing 111, Denmark Women had a shaky start, losing opener Maria Karlsen for a duck in the first over. However, Line Leisner (27 off 27) and Anne Ostergaard (28* off 43) anchored the innings, helping Denmark recover from early setbacks.
Leisner’s partnership with Ostergaard set up the chase, and despite a few nervous moments, Nita Dalgaard chipped in with a quickfire 10 off 8 balls* to guide Denmark to victory in 19.2 overs.
Key Performers:
- Austria Women:
- Jo-Antoinette Stiglitz: 37 (26) & 1/23
- Mallika Pathirannehelage: 22* (21) & 1/23
- Denmark Women:
- Anne Ostergaard: 28* (43)
- Line Leisner: 27 (27)
- Komati Reddy: 1/16 (4 overs)
Records and Notable Moments:
- Line Leisner broke the record for the most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in WT20Is for Denmark Women, with 6 dismissals, surpassing Maria Karlsen’s previous record of 5.
Brief Scores:
Austria Women: 110/6 in 20 overs (Jo-Antoinette Stiglitz 37, Mallika Pathirannehelage 22*, Luise Holmgaard 2/4)
Denmark Women: 113/5 in 19.2 overs (Anne Ostergaard 28*, Line Leisner 27, Komati Reddy 1/16)
Result: Denmark Women won by 5 wickets (with 4 balls remaining)
Denmark’s win keeps them in strong contention in the Women’s T20I Quadrangular Series as they look forward to their next encounter. Austria will aim to bounce back after a valiant effort.
