Kent’s Tammy Beaumont scored her 10thODI hundred and became the highest century-maker in women’s ODIs for England as her side recorded a 275-run win over Ireland at Stormont.
Beaumont’s superb 150 not out off 139 balls was supported by Freya Kemp (65 off 47 balls).
Her ton, containing 16 fours and one six, means the opener moves one clear of Nat Sciver-Brunt to top the all-time list for England in women’s ODIs with 10.
The victory means the tourist’s seal the three-match series with a game to spare.
It was another strong day for captain Kate Cross who took the wicket of counterpart Gaby Lewis in the first over before trapping Amy Hunter and Orla Prendergast lbw in quick succession.
Lauren Filer’s (3-10) pace troubled the hosts and Ireland were 8-4 inside the fourth over.
Georgia Davis took her first international wickets (2-19) on her ODI debut while Kemp also contributed with two wickets as Ireland were bowled out for 45.
Speaking about the win, Beaumont said:
“I found it tough early on and Ireland were bowling tight lines with a slower pace on the pitch.”
“Every time I felt like we were going well, we’d lose a wicket. I had to keep bringing it back. Freya Kemp really showed her class.”
“Since I was about four I’ve been told I can’t do a lot of things and I’ve proved a lot of people wrong,” Beaumont said. “I’ve got nothing left to prove – I’m playing for me, and playing for my teammates.”
“I’ve broken a few records, but I don’t have to keep proving myself, I just have to keep playing and enjoying it.”
The two sides meet again at the same venue on Wednesday (11th September).