• Ireland defeated Pakistan in the first T20I by 5 wickets.

  • Former skipper Andrew Balbirnie played a match-winning knock of 77 runs.

Twitter reactions: Andrew Balbirnie guides Ireland to thrilling win over Pakistan in the first T20I
Andrew Balbirnie shines in Ireland's thrilling win over Pakistan in 1st T20I (Image Source: Twitter)

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In a gripping encounter at Castle Avenue, Dublin, Ireland emerged victorious against Pakistan in the first T20I of the Pakistan tour of Ireland 2024. The hosts registered a 5 wicket win over the Men in Green.

Babar Azam takes Pakistan to a competitive total

After winning the toss, Ireland elected to bowl first, aiming to restrict Pakistan’s batting firepower. Pakistan started strongly with Saim Ayub‘s aggressive knock of 45 runs off 29 balls, backed by skipper Babar Azam‘s classy 57 off 43 deliveries.

However, tight bowling from Craig Young and Gareth Delany kept Pakistan in check. A late surge from Iftikhar Ahmed propelled Pakistan to a competitive total of 182/6 in their allotted 20 overs.

Andrew Balbirnie takes Ireland home

Chasing 183 for victory, Ireland showcased remarkable batting prowess. Andrew Balbirnie led the charge with a sublime innings of 77 runs off 55 balls, well supported by Harry Tector‘s composed 36 off 27 deliveries. Despite losing wickets at crucial junctures, George Dockrell‘s quickfire 24 and Curtis Campher‘s cameo ensured Ireland reached the target with just one ball to spare.

Pakistan bowlers struggled to contain the Irish onslaught, with Abbas Afridi being the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 wickets for 36 runs. However, their efforts fell short as Ireland sealed the victory with 5 wickets in hand. Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Imad Wasim contributed with a wicket each for Pakistan, but their collective bowling effort couldn’t prevent Ireland from clinching a thrilling win.

Also WATCH: IRE vs PAK – Harry Tector hits the bullseye to run out Mohammad Rizwan in the first T20I

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Also READ: IRE vs PAK 2024, T20I Series- Broadcast and Live Streaming details – When & Where to Watch in India, Pakistan, Ireland, UK & other countries

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