Ireland took a significant step towards qualification for this summer’s T20 World Cup with a 98-run over the Netherlands in Nepal.

Orla Prendergast took three wickets for 13 runs across her four overs to be named player of the match as Ireland bounced back from the disappointment of Monday’s defeat by Scotland to sit in a strong position in the Super Sixes of the global qualifiers.

With the top four taking their place at the tournament in England starting 12 June, Ireland will go into the final round of fixtures on Sunday in third place, knowing a win against eliminated Thailand will assure them of their spot.

The Netherlands, who have never previously appeared at the tournament, had already joined Bangladesh in qualifying with two games to spare on Wednesday.

Ireland lost the toss in Kathmandu and initially made slow progress, sitting at 38 without loss at the end of the powerplay.

Skipper Gaby Lewis fell for 20 in the next over with fellow opener Amy Hunter reaching 34 off 31 balls before being bowled by Silver Siegers.

The arrival of the in-form Leah Paul, who contributed 39 from 24 deliveries, to the crease saw Ireland set the Netherlands a challenging target before the bowling attack came to the fore.

Both Prendergast and Jane Maguire took three wickets each with only opener Iris Zwilling reaching double figures for the Netherlands as they were bowled out for 45 in the 15th over.