Mwatile stars as Namibia clinch series victory over Ireland U19 Women

A superb unbeaten 79 from Mekelaye Mwatile powered Namibia to a six-wicket victory over Ireland Under-19 Women as the hosts continued their dominance of the six-match series.

The Capricorn Eagles successfully chased down Ireland's 145 for six with nine balls to spare, moving 4-1 ahead with just one game remaining. It was another frustrating afternoon for the young Irish side, who had posted a competitive total but were unable to contain the outstanding Mwatile.

The Namibian star struck ten fours and two sixes in a match-winning 79 from just 54 deliveries, ensuring there would be no repeat of Ireland's dramatic Super Over success earlier in the series. Ireland had made a promising start after losing Rebecca Lowe for 17, with skipper Alice Tector again showing her quality.

Tector struck three boundaries in a fluent 35 from 31 balls, while Niamh Lowry provided valuable momentum with a brisk 23 from 16 deliveries, including four fours.
Aisling Lawlor contributed 12, before Millie Spence (13 not out) and Isabelle McLean (12 not out) added useful late runs, McLean striking a six in her seven-ball cameo. Arrasta Diergaardt and Saima Tuhadeleni claimed two wickets apiece for the hosts.

Ireland's hopes were raised when Anna Ellerby bowled Kayleen Green for a duck with just four on the board. However, captain Sunè Wittmann (35) helped repair the damage before Mwatile took control. Lucy Andrews dismissed Wittmann, caught by Spence, while Ellerby added the wicket of Mezerly Gorases (20).

Sophie Bellew removed Wilka Mwatile, but there was no stopping her namesake Mekelaye, who steered the hosts home in the 19th over. Ellerby finished with two for 25, while Andrews was particularly economical, taking one for 21 from four overs.

Ireland will be desperate to finish the series on a winning note in the final encounter later this afternoon.