Ireland will 'regroup and stick together' after starting T20 World Cup campaign with Scotland defeat

Batting first, the Scots posted 161/5 with skipper Kathryn Bryce (60) and Sarah Bryce (49) leading the way, sharing a third-wicket partnership worth 106.

Ava Canning was the pick of Ireland’s bowlers, registering figures of 3/27, while Aimee Maguire and Arlene Kelly collected one apiece.

In reply, Amy Hunter (39) top-scored for Ireland and Orla Prendergast (33) also impressed, but they ultimately fell 40 runs short as the country's wait for a maiden World Cup win extended – it now stands at 18 matches without victory.

Lewis’ side have another four group matches to go as they look to end that streak – they’ll face England on Tuesday before further tests against New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies.

"I think it was the middle period (where it went wrong),” said Lewis. “We had a good start and that middle period just slipped away.

"Scotland ran really well, played really well, so hats off to them.

"The momentum was with us early on, I guess if we had a better power play, but it's hard to put a finger on what phase of the game (cost us), but go back to the drawing board and hopefully improve next game.

"It's a long tournament. We still have four more games and there are teams we think we can put in a fight against and beat so regroup and stick together that's all I can say."

Scotland captain Bryce, who was named player of the match, said: "There's a lot of emotions flying around right at the moment, it was absolutely outstanding.

"Looking at the crowd, the support from both teams was outstanding so massive thanks to everyone who has travelled down.

"I think the way Sarah attacked in the middle period made it really easy for me at the other end.

"I was really pleased to go out there and do that today and set the tone for the competition. I just want to be able to put in a performance for the team."