Following India’s stunning 34-run loss in the first Twenty20 International in Belfast on Friday, captain Shreyas Iyer said his bowlers had the Irish batters on tenterhooks early on but lamented the lack of execution in the middle overs.
In the two-match series, an injury-plagued Ireland upset the world champions by winning their first game against India in any format and taking a 1-0 lead.
Choosing to bowl, India had reduced the hosts to 30/3 during the Powerplay before Gareth Delany’s 32-ball 49 and captain Lorcan Tucker’s half-century lifted Ireland to 182/9.
“I think initially, the bowlers were bowling well. They got lateral movement, and they got a couple of wickets as well. So we got a tremendous start, but in between, we lost execution,” PTI quoted Iyer as saying at the post-match presentation.
After rebounding from the early blows, Iyer believed the hosts were at least 10-15 runs above par.
“We made them hit straight down the ground, where we know that the dimensions are pretty small. I thought 140 would have been an amazing score considering the start that we got to chase. But nonetheless, it’s a great experience over here. We got to play in these conditions, got a fair idea about the wicket, and yeah, great start as a captain,” said Iyer, who made his debut as full-time T20I captain.
Iyer stated that the team would swiftly get past the loss and concentrate on leveling the series in spite of the setback.
“We’re going to forget what’s happened. Definitely a lot to learn from this game and see to it that we come out in the next game all guns blazing.”
The captain gave particular recognition to all-rounder Shivam Dube (1/18 in 3 overs) and speedster Harshit Rana (3/24), both of whom exploited the helpful conditions effectively.
“They were getting help up front at the start, and Shivam, he has bowled crucial overs in the past. So I always back him, and I’ve played with him in the domestic circuit as well. I know his strengths and weaknesses. Harshit Rana bowled phenomenal. Coming out of an injury to perform at this level and showcase this sort of talent, it’s simply brilliant.”
Iyer further emphasized the significance of remaining vigilant in the face of any opposition.
“I think you can’t take anything for granted. You can’t just turn up and win matches. You have to work hard and see to it that you’re in that moment. Like I mentioned earlier, you’ve got to stay in the present and see to it that if you’ve got that opportunity to squeeze the opponent, we’ve got to do that. And yeah, never take any moment or situation lightly.”
After Ireland achieved its first-ever victory over India, newly chosen captain Lorcan Tucker called the victory a “special” moment for the team.
“Credit to the lads. I think we scrapped through that game. We had some tough periods in it, but we stayed in it. We were diligent, we worked hard and we were lucky to get the reward in the end,” Tucker said.
“I think it’s pretty special to beat the world champions at home in the first game of the season. But credit’s due to the lads. We had two debutants who put in absolutely outstanding performances.
“All the work that goes on behind the scenes, Cricket Ireland, everyone is very dedicated, and that’s why we like to bring these results and reward everyone.”
A series victory over India at home, according to Tucker, would be a noteworthy accomplishment for the team.
“A series win at home against India would be pretty special. I think the lads are absolutely mustard keen to get back here,” he added.
