Ireland scripted one of the biggest upsets in international cricket by defeating reigning T20 World Cup champions India by 34 runs in the opening match of the two-match T20 International series at Stormont, registering their first-ever victory over India in any format.
After being put into bat, Ireland recovered from early setbacks to post a competitive 182 for 9, thanks to a captain’s knock from Lorcan Tucker and a blistering late innings from Gareth Delany. Their determined batting effort laid the foundation for a memorable victory against one of the strongest teams in world cricket.
India, led by Shreyas Iyer in his first T20 International as captain, struggled throughout the chase as the Irish bowlers maintained disciplined lines and struck at regular intervals. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 148 in the final over, falling 34 runs short of the target.
Ireland’s bowling attack produced an inspired performance, with Matt Hollard claiming three wickets to earn the Player of the Match award. Spinner Matt Humphreys also bagged three wickets, while debutant Jai Moondra made an immediate impact by taking a wicket with his very first delivery in international cricket.
Following the defeat, Indian opener Abhishek Sharma admitted that the team failed to adapt to the playing conditions in Belfast, acknowledging that Ireland outplayed the visitors in all departments.
The victory gives Ireland a 1-0 lead in the two-match series and marks a landmark achievement for Irish cricket, ending a long wait for their first international win over India after 20 previous meetings across formats.
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