Pakistan vs Ireland 2nd T20I :Pakistan secured a thrilling seven-wicket victory over Ireland in the second T20I at Dublin’s Castle Avenue, leveling the three-match series 1-1. Chasing a competitive 194, openers Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman stitched together a match-winning partnership to steer their team home with almost four overs to spare.
Ireland, after electing to bat, posted a strong total thanks to contributions from Lorcan Tucker (51) and Curtis Campher (22). Pakistan’s bowling attack started well with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking two early wickets. However, Ireland capitalized on some loose bowling in the middle overs, reaching a healthy total.
Pakistan’s chase got off to a shaky start as they lost their openers Saim Ayub (6) and Babar Azam (0) cheaply. But Rizwan, playing with an attacking intent, and Fakhar Zaman, who displayed brute force, took the game away from Ireland. Their 140-run stand for the third wicket, the highest for Pakistan in T20Is for this wicket, put them firmly in control.
Rizwan continued his aggressive batting after Fakhar’s dismissal, reaching a well-made 75 off just 56 balls. Azam Khan finished the game in style, smashing three sixes in the final over to seal the victory.
Key performers for Pakistan:
- Mohammad Rizwan (75*): Anchored the chase with a composed fifty.
- Fakhar Zaman (78): Provided the early impetus with a quickfire knock.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (3-49): Took crucial wickets upfront to restrict Ireland’s scoring rate.
Turning point of Pakistan vs Ireland 2nd T20I
The 140-run partnership between Rizwan and Zaman took the game away from Ireland and put Pakistan in a commanding position.
Looking ahead:
The series decider will be a crucial encounter for both teams, with Pakistan looking to clinch their first series win in Ireland and the hosts aiming to defend their home turf.