Ireland Vs Pakistan: Ireland Register Historic Victory Over Pakistan In 1st T20I

Ireland Vs Pakistan: It's 2007 vibes all over again for the Irish, as they beat Pakistan for the first time ever in T20I's and here are the details of the 1st T20I.

Ireland Vs Pakistan: Ireland scripted history in the 1st T20I between the sides, as the European nation have registered their first ever victory over the former World T20 champions. Ireland have defeated Pakistan back in 2007, but that victory came in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007, which was an ODI version, and have now managed to do so in the T20 format, as they have registered an impressive 5 wicket win. 

In the process, Ireland veteran George Dockrell completed his 1000 T20I runs, as his contribution proved to be extremely vital in what was an epic and brilliant chase from the Paul Stirling-led side.

"We are absolutely delighted. A perfect day for us. I think it is one of the flattest pitch and we wanted to see how they can bat. Credit to our batters to chase this one. Andrew Balbirnie played a fantastic knock and he was timing it very well. We have had good games here and getting over the line today is fantastic. We look to have a day off tomorrow," said the Ireland skipper.

However, it was a day to forget for Pakistan and captain Babar Azam, as he pointed out poor fielding being the reason bheind the defeat.

"I think our start was not good. I think the pitch was quick and I said 180 will be a good total but now I think 190 would have been good. We lost in the bowling and fielding. We had a few lapse in the fielding and that was the reason. I think we had a good first 10 overs and then we had a few lapse in the next 10 overs. That was the reason of our loss," said the Pakistan skipper.

 

Here's What Man Of The Match Andrew Balbirnie Said In Post Match Presentation Ceremony

Andrew Balbirnie was awarded the Man of the match award for his exceptional 77 off 55, as heregistered his highest ever T20I score against a Test playing nation, and had the following to say:

"I was hopeful and thought that it is my responsibility to pull the chase off. I think in pressure situations, experienced players need to step up. Harry told me that we need to bat normally and not take any pressure. I think Shaheen is a great bowler and on the flip side it is a shame for me to miss the full toss. Yes, tomorrow will be a rest day for us."