Ireland beat India for the first time in international cricket on Friday, stunning the reigning T20 world champions by 34 runs in the opening T20I in Belfast.
Batting first, Ireland posted 182-9 after recovering from early pressure. Captain Lorcan Tucker led the innings with a composed half-century, while Gareth Delany added a crucial 49 to give the hosts a competitive total.
Ireland Beat India After Middle-Order Collapse
India began the chase aggressively, with Abhishek Sharma providing a rapid start. However, his dismissal triggered a collapse as Ireland’s bowlers kept striking at key moments.
Matt Hollard and Matthew Humphreys picked up three wickets each as India were bowled out for 148 in 18.5 overs. The result gives Ireland a memorable win and a 1-0 lead in the T20I series.
The victory marks one of the biggest moments in Ireland cricket history, ending India’s unbeaten international record against them and adding fresh pressure on the visitors ahead of the next match.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, June 27, 2026
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