Maia Bouchier scored a century to guide England Women to their highest successful ODI run chase, beating Ireland Women by six wickets in the first match of a three-game series held in Leicester. Bouchier’s 104 runs off 95 balls were central to England’s successful pursuit of 282 runs, breaking their previous record chase of 264 set against Australia in 2023.

The 27-year-old batter, who was dropped from the England side following a difficult Ashes campaign in 2025 and missed the recent T20 World Cup, has displayed strong form for Hampshire this season, averaging 65.07 across formats. She capitalized on the absence of England’s regular ODI opener Amy Jones, who was rested for this game, by producing her third international century. Bouchier and Sophia Dunkley put together a commanding opening stand of 143 runs over 19.4 overs. Dunkley contributed 73 runs from 61 balls before the partnership was ended by spinner Cara Murray, who caught a sharp return catch off her own bowling.

England’s No.3, Jodi Grewcock, was dismissed early by Murray after ten balls, but the chase was kept on track by Bouchier’s consistent scoring. After Bouchier was caught out off Orla Kelly, Alice Capsey and all-rounder Freya Kemp combined to add 54 runs for the fourth wicket, sealing the win with nearly 12 overs remaining.

Ireland, ranked tenth in the ODI standings, put up a competitive total of 281 for five in their innings. Their innings was highlighted by a 136-run partnership between Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis and a brisk half-century by Rebecca Stokell, who scored an unbeaten 54 off 43 balls. Ireland’s batting was marked by effective play against England’s spin options, although England’s bowlers, particularly teenagers Tilly Corteen-Coleman and Issy Wong, had mixed success. Wong claimed two key wickets, while spinner Ella Dean was the most effective over the course of the innings.

England’s fielding showed inconsistencies, with some lapses in ground fielding and wayward throws noted throughout the game. Several senior England players, including captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge, wicketkeeper Amy Jones, and bowlers Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Bell, were rested following a demanding summer schedule that featured a home T20 World Cup, bilateral series, the first women’s Test at Lord’s, and the Hundred competition.

Alice Capsey stepped in as wicketkeeper despite limited experience in the role, performing admirably with catches including a notable one to dismiss opener Alice Tector. England’s head coach Charlotte Edwards is expected to use these matches to assess fringe players and those seeking to secure their places as the summer closes.

England will continue the series with matches at Derby and Worcester, aiming to build momentum and close their international summer on a strong note.