The first-ever Meltl Shield, held in Rome, was a thrilling spectacle of women's cricket, bringing together players from 13 different nationalities to compete for the coveted title. Over the course of the tournament, a total of 1,867 runs were scored, 70 wickets fell, 191 fours were struck, and 89 sixes were smashed, showcasing the immense talent and fierce competition on display.

Team Europe started the tournament with a bang, winning the first three games in dominant fashion. Their captain, Babette de Leede, led from the front, smashing three consecutive fifties to give her side a commanding lead. British & Irish Roses, however, refused to back down and responded strongly in Match 4, chasing down 99 runs on the very last ball of the match, keeping their hopes alive.

At the end of Day 1, Team Europe had secured four wins out of five, putting British & Irish Roses in a must-win situation for Day 2. The Roses kicked off the second day with a convincing victory in Match 6, ensuring they remained in the tournament. But Team Europe quickly hit back in Match 7, posting the highest score of the event—a massive 168 runs—which proved too much for the Roses. With that win, Team Europe secured the Meltl Shield, rendering the remaining games inconsequential in terms of the overall outcome.

Nevertheless, Team Europe continued to dominate, winning the final two games as well, closing out the tournament with an emphatic 7-2 scoreline. Babette de Leede was deservedly named MVP of the tournament, amassing 342 runs and leading her team to victory with her outstanding performances. Ilenia Sims of Team Europe also shone brightly, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with nine scalps to her name.

The first-ever Meltl Shield was a resounding success, underscoring the importance of showcasing women’s cricket on a prominent platform. During a brief commentary stint, Manuela Meltl-Weston, after whom the Shield is named, shared her thoughts on the significance of the event. "I think it's very important that girls also see the women play on TV to get inspired," she remarked, highlighting the impact of the tournament and more women's cricket on ECN, on the future generation of female cricketers.

Here are some snapshots from the event: