Dublin: In a thrilling encounter that saw India make a victorious comeback, the visitors clinched a narrow two-run win over Ireland through the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20 series. The rain-affected match witnessed pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah’s remarkable return, with India successfully defending a below-par target of 140 runs.
Jasprit Bumrah, leading the side after an 11-month hiatus, showcased his mettle, claiming 2 wickets for 24 runs and playing a pivotal role in limiting Ireland to a modest 139 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. His fellow paceman Prasidh Krishna (2/32) and spinner Ravi Bishnoi (2/23) complemented his efforts, each grabbing two wickets to keep the Irish batsmen on a tight leash.
Ireland’s batting lineup struggled to find momentum throughout their innings, slumping to 59/6 inside the first 11 overs. However, a late surge by Barry McCarthy turned the tide for the hosts. McCarthy’s well-crafted 51 not out off 33 balls, including 4 boundaries and 4 sixes, resurrected Ireland’s innings and propelled them to a more respectable total.
Chasing a target of 140, India’s opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal (24 off 23 balls) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (19 not out) laid a solid foundation, amassing 46 runs in 6.2 overs. However, just as their partnership was gaining momentum, rain intervened, disrupting play. At the point of interruption, India stood at 47 for 2 in 6.5 overs, ahead of Ireland by two runs as per the DLS par score calculation.
The match marked an exceptional comeback for Jasprit Bumrah, who not only contributed with the ball but also captained the side to a hard-fought victory. His leadership and ability to marshal the team in pressure situations were evident, boding well for India’s campaign in the ongoing series.
Brief Scores: Ireland 139 for 7 in 20 overs (Barry McCarthy 51 not out, Curtis Campher 39; Jasprit Bumrah 2/24, Prasidh Krishna 2/32, Ravi Bishnoi 2/23). India: 47 for 2 in 6.5 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 24; Craig Young 2/2).
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