Ireland finally ended their long wait for a T20 World Cup victory, producing a composed all-round display to defeat the West Indies by six wickets in Bristol and create a slice of history.

Playing in their fifth appearance at the global tournament, Ireland claimed their maiden World Cup win at the 22nd attempt, chasing down 129 with 11 balls to spare thanks to a magnificent 63 from Orla Prendergast.

Having chosen to bowl first, Ireland's attack kept the West Indies under constant pressure. Aimee Maguire struck early when Qiana Joseph top-edged to a sweep, while Arlene Kelly removed Shemaine Campbelle cheaply. Captain Hayley Matthews briefly steadied the innings with 22 before falling to Cara Murray, and Ireland never allowed the Caribbean side to build meaningful partnerships.

Jane Maguire dismissed the dangerous Deandra Dottin for 21, while Murray finished with outstanding figures of 2 for 13 and Aimee Maguire claimed 2 for 22. Chinelle Henry's unbeaten 27 lifted the West Indies to 128 for 7, but the total always looked within Ireland's reach.

Ireland's reply began positively despite the early loss of skipper Gaby Lewis. Amy Hunter made the most of an early reprieve to score a fluent 28 before sharing a crucial 50-run partnership with Prendergast.

The Pembroke all-rounder then produced one of the finest innings of her international career, reaching her half-century from just 36 balls before striking 63 from 45 deliveries in a superb knock that featured authoritative strokeplay and kept Ireland firmly in control.

Although Hayley Matthews removed Prendergast with 21 still required, Rebecca Stokell's unbeaten 16 ensured there would be no late collapse before Louise Little struck the boundary that sealed a famous victory.

"It feels amazing," said Player of the Match Prendergast. "We've worked incredibly hard for this and to finally get that first World Cup win means everything to the squad. We believed we could do it and everyone contributed."

Ireland captain Gaby Lewis praised her side's composure.

"I'm so proud of this group. We've been building towards a performance like this for a long time. Our bowlers were outstanding in restricting them and Orla played a brilliant innings under pressure. Hopefully this is just the start of many more special moments."

Ireland's next games are also against the West Indies - three ODI's at Bready on July 10th, 12th and 15th.