'You come here from Pakistan, flattest pitches in world': Ireland Captain Paul Stirling trolls Babar Azam-led side after winning 1st T20I

Ireland picked up a thrilling 5-wicket win against Pakistan in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground in Dublin, on May 10. This was no less than an upset victory for the Irish side ahead of the upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup 2024 where both teams will compete again as they are placed in the same group. After their stunning final-over win against the Asian giants, Irish captain Paul Stirling passed a cheeky jibe at the visitors over their flat pitches.

Paul Stirling trolls Pakistan's flat pitches

Paul Stirling while talking about their win said Pakistan have the flattest pitches in the world and that they offered them to bat first to see how they will get outside from their country.

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“We are absolutely delighted, we wanted to start the summer off well and it was almost a perfect day for us. When you come here, especially from Pakistan, the flattest pitches in the world, ask them to bat first and see what they can get. 170 was OK but we leaked a few, but we were happy to chase 180. Brilliant knock from Balbirnie, he got through the powerplay and picked up the pace later on as well. He timed it to perfection, it was a fantastic knock. We have had great games here especially against Pakistan and to get over the line today is brilliant," said Stirling in the post-match presentation.

 

Ireland leading series 1-0

 

The hosts have now gained a 1-0 lead over Pakistan. The Men in Green batting first posted 182/6 with the help of Babar Azam's fifty and a blazing finish from Iftikhar Ahmed. However, the score on the board wasn't enough to stop the Irish side.

 

Ireland got off to a slow start in the chase and even lost two wickets inside the first five overs but experienced batter Andrew Balbirnie helped in reviving its team and turning the tables on the visitors. He played a match-winning knock of 77 runs off 55 balls and won the Player of the Match award for it. Apart from him, Harry Tector, George Dockrell, and Curtis Campher also played crucial cameos.

 

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