Ireland secured their second-ever win over Pakistan with a thrilling five-wicket victory in the first T20 match at a sunny Clontarf on Friday. Opener Andrew Balbirnie’s outstanding innings of 77 runs paved the way for the hosts to reach 183-5, clinching the win with just one ball remaining.
Pakistan set a target of 182-6, with Babar Azam contributing 57 runs and Saim Ayub adding 45. This historic win marks Ireland’s first victory over Pakistan in T20 cricket, 17 years after their first-ever win against them at the 2007 World Cup.
Despite a strong start from Babar and Ayub, who put on 85 runs for the second wicket, Pakistan faltered from 116-2 to 123-5 before a late surge led by Iftikhar Ahmed, who scored a quickfire 37, helped them reach a competitive total.
Ireland stun Pakistan with victory in Clontarf opener
Craig Young led the Irish bowling attack with figures of 2-27.
Ireland faced a shaky start at 27-2 before a crucial partnership of 76 runs between Balbirnie and Harry Tector (36) put them back on track. Contributions from George Dockrell (24) and a composed finish from Curtis Campher (15*) and Gareth Delany (10*) guided Ireland to victory, with a leg bye sealing the win despite jubilant celebrations.
The two teams will meet again on Sunday and Tuesday at the same venue. Their concluding World Cup group game is scheduled for 16 June in Florida.
