Ireland's determined chase, led by Andrew Balbirnie's 55-ball 77, resulted in a stunning five-wicket win over Pakistan in the first T20I of the series in Dublin. Despite a strong start from Babar Azam and Saim Ayub's 85-run partnership, Ireland's bowlers, especially Mark Adair and Craig Young, made a comeback and took crucial wickets to restrict Pakistan to 182/6. Balbirnie's explosive innings, along with contributions from Harry Tector and George Dockrell, helped Ireland successfully chase down the target with just one ball to spare and go 1-up in the series.
Ireland Stuns Pakistan in Dublin T20I
Ireland shocked Pakistan in the first T20I of the series in Dublin by chasing down a challenging target of 183 with only one ball to spare. Andrew Balbirnie's brilliant innings of 55-ball 77 led the Irish chase.
Pakistan's Innings
Pakistan got off to a solid start, with openers Babar Azam and Saim Ayub putting up an 85-run partnership. Azam was dismissed for 39, but Ayub continued, scoring a quickfire 48 off just 29 deliveries.
However, Ireland's bowlers fought back, with Mark Adair claiming 2/30 and Craig Young taking 2/35. Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually restricted to 182/6.
Ireland's Chase
Balbirnie led the way for Ireland with his masterful innings. He struck nine fours and two sixes, providing the impetus for the chase. Harry Tector chipped in with a valuable 27, while George Dockrell added an unbeaten 21 off 10 balls.
Despite losing wickets regularly, Ireland kept up with the run rate, thanks to Balbirnie's brilliance. With just one ball remaining, Dockrell hit a boundary to seal a famous victory for Ireland.
Background
Ireland and Pakistan have a rich history in cricket, with the two sides regularly meeting in both T20 and ODI matches. Ireland has enjoyed some notable successes against Pakistan in the past, including a famous T20I win in Belfast in 2016.
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