Team India is set to kick off their three-match T20I series against the host nation Ireland, with the inaugural game scheduled to take place at the Village Stadium in Malahide, Dublin on Friday. In their previous encounters, India has emerged victorious in all five T20I matches against Ireland, maintaining an unblemished record. This series presents another opportunity for India to extend their winning streak.
The leadership reins for India will be in the hands of Jasprit Bumrah, who assumes the role of captain for the first time in T20Is. Bumrah’s return to the international cricket scene is significant, marking his comeback after an absence of nearly 11 months since his last appearance in September 2022. The Indian squad boasts several standout performers from the IPL 2023 season, including Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who also holds the position of vice-captain for the team.
Marking his return after an 11-month hiatus and leading the Indian team, Jasprit Bumrah showcased his fitness and skill, claiming figures of 2/24. Joining him on the comeback trail, Prasidh Krishna displayed his prowess with a spell of 2/32. Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi also left his mark with two wickets, delivering the most economical performance at 2/23, while paceman Arshdeep Singh took 1/35.
In response, India’s opening pair, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad, skillfully blended caution with aggression against the challenging Irish pacers. Their partnership yielded 46 runs in 6.2 overs before Jaiswal departed, caught by Craig Young for 24. However, T20 sensation Tilak Verma struggled to make an impact, falling victim to Young for a first-ball duck. Young ended with figures of 2/2 in 0.5 overs. Ruturaj Gaikwad remained unbeaten on 19 when rain intervened, bringing the DLS method into play. Ultimately, India secured victory by a narrow two-run margin.
Here are the players’ reactions following the match:
Jasprit Bumrah on his fitness: “It felt very good, so many sessions I did at the NCA, didn’t feel I missed out a lot or was doing something new. Credit to the staff, they kept me in good spirits.”
Jasprit Bumrah on weather conditions and Ireland’s performance: “There was some swing upfront, so we wanted to use it. Luckily we won the toss and it was coming out fine. There was some help due to the weather, so very happy. In every game, you would want more. After a crisis (slipping to 59/6), they played well, credit where it is due. Even when you win, there are areas to improve on. Everybody is very confident.”
McCarthy on his half-century: “It is always good to contribute to the team, disappointed that we didn’t get a win. We (Campher and I during our partnership) knew we had to get a good score on the board. We were enforcing ourselves and playing strong shots. In the second innings (India’s run-chase), there was a little bit in the wicket. It’s important to take the game to the opposition.”
Ravi Bishnoi on Jasprit Bumrah’s performance: “The type of bowler he is, the whole world has seen his bowling. It was his first match on his comeback after a long time. His first delivery didn’t work out, but the five balls after that were fun to watch. Everyone was waiting to see this Bumrah, and it was fun to watch him bowl.”