Ireland beat India by 34 runs in first T20I, create historic record

BELFAST: Ireland pulled off an upset victory against India in the first T20 International, defeating them by 34 runs. Chasing a target of 183 runs set by Ireland, India's innings concluded at 148 runs in 18.5 overs. This marks Ireland's first-ever win over India in international cricket.

Opener Abhishek Sharma gave India a strong start with a blistering 50 off just 20 balls, including seven boundaries and two sixes. However, the rest of the top order collapsed quickly, with Sanju Samson (5), Ishan Kishan (1), and captain Shreyas Iyer (3) failing to contribute significantly. Middle-order batters Tilak Varma (19) and Washington Sundar (9) also struggled as India slipped to 100 for six in 12 overs. Shivam Dube added 25 off 14 balls, but his dismissal further dented India’s chase. At 135 for seven in 16 overs, India’s chances had already faded. Axar Patel (15), Harshit Rana (8), and Arshdeep Singh (2) could not prevent the collapse.

Earlier, Ireland posted 182 for nine in 20 overs after being put in to bat. Captain Lorcan Tucker led the innings with a 50 off 36 balls, while Gareth Delany scored 49 off 32 balls. Tim Tector (17) and Ross Adair (12) also made useful contributions. For India, Harshit Rana took three wickets, while Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel picked up two wickets each. Shivam Dube claimed one wicket.