By Victoria Hamilton 
Day 2 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Europe Division 1 Qualifier 2025 in Rotterdam brought gripping contests. Ireland Women continued their strong start with an impressive chase against hosts Netherlands Women, while Italy Women secured their first victory of the tournament with a clinical win over Germany Women.
Ireland Women vs Netherlands Women – Lewis leads Ireland to big win
Result: Ireland Women won by 8 wickets | NED-W 137/6 (20 ov) vs IRE-W 141/2 (19.2 ov)
Put in to bat, the Netherlands Women posted a respectable 137/6. Openers Phebe Molkenboer (27 off 30) and Heather Siegers (27 off 24) gave a steady start, while Frederique Overdijk (25 off 21) added late runs. Extras (20 in total) also boosted the Dutch total.
Ireland’s chase was spearheaded by skipper Gaby Lewis, who produced a classy 66 off 52 balls* with 11 boundaries. She was well supported by Orla Prendergast (28 off 26) and Amy Hunter (21 off 23). Ireland reached the target in 19.2 overs, sealing a comfortable 8-wicket win.
Lewis was deservedly named Player of the Match for her match-winning knock that kept Ireland unbeaten.
Italy Women vs Germany Women – Bartram inspires Italy to first points
Result: Italy Women won by 4 wickets | GER-W 113/6 (20 ov) vs ITA-W 117/6 (15.4 ov)
Germany Women, batting first, managed 113/6 in their 20 overs. Shravya Kolcharam (35 off 30) played a vital hand, while *Nicole Kingsley (17) provided late runs. Italy’s bowling was sharp, with Ilenia Sims (3/8) and captain Emilia Bartram (2/4) dismantling Germany’s batting.
In reply, Italy’s chase was powered by Chloe Piparo (37 off 22) and Ilenia Sims (25 off 32). Bartram also contributed a quick 20 off 12, guiding her team to 117/6 in 15.4 overs. Despite some middle-order stumbles, Italy won by 4 wickets with 26 balls to spare.
Emilia Bartram delivered a superb all-round display (20 runs, 2 wickets, 3 catches), earning the Player of the Match award.
Ireland extended their unbeaten streak with another commanding performance, while Italy got their campaign underway with a much-needed win against Germany. After two days, Ireland look strong favorites to top the standings, while Netherlands and Italy are fighting to stay in contention. Germany, still winless, will be desperate for a turnaround in the coming matches.
Tim Douglas