Ireland's Balbirnie special knock against Pakistan led Ireland to a historic win against Pakistan
Ireland cleans Pakistan in a thrilling run chase in the first 1st T20I of the series
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In a T20I encounter between Pakistan and Ireland, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first. However, they found themselves in early trouble as Mohammad Rizwan was dismissed due to an unfortunate runout. Despite this setback, Saim Ayub and Babar Azam exhibited resilience and constructed a crucial 85-run partnership for the second wicket. Ayub showcased aggressive intent, striking 4 boundaries and 3 maximums on his way to a brisk 45 off 29 balls, while Azam, after a slow start, accelerated to score a well-crafted 57 off 43 balls, his 37th T20I half-century.
Following their dismissals, the middle order faltered, with Azam Khan departing for a silver duck and Shadab Khan also failing to make an impact. Fakhar Zaman contributed a patient 20 off 18 balls before falling, but it was Iftikhar Ahmed who provided the late fireworks with a blistering 37 off just 15 deliveries, including 3 fours and 3 sixes. Shaheen Shah Afridi chipped in with a handy cameo of 14* off 8 balls. Despite some turbulence, Pakistan managed to post a competitive total, crossing the 180-run mark.
In response, Ireland commenced their chase on a positive note, with Andrew Balbirnie leading from the front. Although they lost their skipper early, Balbirnie anchored the innings superbly, receiving support from Harry Tector and George Dockrell, who contributed 36 and 24 runs respectively. Balbirnie's knock was the standout performance, as he showcased exemplary batting skills to compile 77 runs off 55 deliveries, steering Ireland's pursuit of the target. Curtis Campher's valuable contribution in the lower order also played a crucial role in keeping Ireland in the hunt.
However, Pakistan's bowling unit faced challenges, particularly with Shadab Khan conceding runs at an expensive rate, ending with figures of 54 runs in his allotted 4 overs. Abbas Afridi and Imad Wasim managed to make breakthroughs, claiming 2 and 1 wicket respectively. Despite some bowling difficulties, Pakistan ultimately emerged victorious, while Ireland displayed commendable determination in their chase, falling short of the target.
IRELAND BEAT PAKISTAN!!! What an incredible series opener we've just witnessed! A historic victory for @cricketireland 🇮🇪👏👏👏
— FanCode (@FanCode) May 10, 2024
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.#IREvPAKonFanCode #IREvPAK #FanCode pic.twitter.com/prvSBt37L5