Pakistan win T20 Series against Ireland by 2-1 in Dublin 

Pakistan Team taking photo shot after winning the series. © pcb.com.pk

Pakistan secured a convincing 6-wicket victory over Ireland in the deciding T20I at Clontarf Cricket Club, clinching the series 2-1. Standout performances from Shaheen Shah Afridi with the ball and a composed half-century from Babar Azam sealed the win for the visitors.

Ireland Set Up a Competitive Total

Lorcan Tucker, leading Ireland in the absence of Paul Stirling, smashed a brilliant 73 off just 41 deliveries. He, along with Andy Balbirnie (35), put on a crucial 85-run partnership for the second wicket, threatening a big total. However, Shaheen Afridi turned the tide for Pakistan with an exceptional bowling spell. He conceded only 14 runs in his 4 overs, picking up 3 crucial wickets, including Tucker’s. Ireland lost momentum in the latter half of their innings, managing only 49 runs in the last seven overs and finishing with a below-par 178 on the board.

Pakistan Cruise to Victory

Despite losing opener Saim Ayub cheaply, Pakistan’s experienced batting duo of Mohammad Rizwan (56) and Babar Azam (75) took control of the chase. They capitalized on some wayward bowling from Ireland, particularly during the powerplay, and stitched together a solid partnership. A dropped catch by George Dockrell on Babar proved costly, as the Pakistan captain went on to score a quickfire 42-ball 75, effectively ending any Irish hopes of a comeback.

Shaheen Brilliant Performance

Shaheen Afridi was undoubtedly a hero of Pakistan. After a forgettable performance in the previous game, he bounced back with a fiery spell. His ability to nail yorkers at will throughout his four overs proved too much for the Irish batters. His match-winning bowling performance rightfully earned him the Player of the Match award.

Tucker Impresses Despite Defeat

While the result didn’t go their way, Ireland can take heart from Lorcan Tucker’s brilliant knock. He batted with great confidence and played a crucial role in getting his side to a competitive total. His dismissal proved to be a turning point in the match, as Ireland’s batting faltered after that.

With this series win, Pakistan heads into the T20 World Cup with some momentum. They’ll be hoping Shaheen Afridi can continue his good form and provide a potent bowling weapon alongside Mohammad Hasnain and Haris Rauf. Ireland, on the other hand, will look to address their batting frailties and find a more consistent middle order ahead of upcoming challenges.

Match Summary 

Toss: Pak won the toss and elected to bowl 

Stadium: Clontarf Cricket Club

Result: Pak won by 6 wicket & 18 balls left

Player of the Match: Shaheen Afridi (Pak) – 3/14 (4)