Ireland registered their first ever T20I win over India after beating the visitors by 34 runs in the opening match of the two match series.
It was also a disappointing start for Shreyas Iyer, who was leading the Indian T20I side for the first time.
Chasing 183, India never looked in control after losing early wickets. Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer were back in the pavilion quickly, putting the middle order under pressure.
Abhishek Sharma tried to change the game with a quick 50 off 20 balls, but after his dismissal, the chase lost momentum.
Tilak Varma, Washington Sundar and the lower order failed to build partnerships as India were bowled out for 148 in 18.5 overs.
Earlier in the match, Lorcan Tucker’s 50 and Gareth Delany’s 49 guided Ireland to 182/9 after being asked to bat first. Harshit Rana impressed with three wickets on his comeback, while Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel claimed two wickets each.
Ireland’s bowlers backed up the total with a disciplined performance. Matthew Hallard and Matthew Humphreys picked up three wickets each to keep India under pressure throughout the chase.
The defeat sparked strong reactions on social media. Many fans said Abhishek Sharma was the only Indian batter who showed intent.
Some also questioned Gautam Gambhir’s continued backing of Washington Sundar and Prasidh Krishna in the T20 setup, with several users debating whether India’s team selection played a major role in the defeat.
