Samarawickrama's 86 Powers Sri Lanka to T20I Victory over Ireland

Samarawickrama’s 86 Powers Sri Lanka to T20I Victory over Ireland

Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team made a triumphant start to their T20I series against Ireland in Dublin, securing a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the first match. The victory was largely orchestrated by the brilliance of Harshitha Samarawickrama, who smashed an unbeaten 86 off just 45 deliveries.

Ireland, after being sent in to bat, posted a competitive total of 145 for 6. Opener Gaby Lewis (39) and Oria Prendergast (29) provided a solid foundation with a 59-run partnership for the second wicket. Captain Laura Delany (25) and Rebecca Stokell (21*) also made valuable contributions.

However, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup proved too strong for Ireland’s bowlers. Samarawickrama, fresh off her top-scoring performance in the Asia Cup final, once again led the charge. She combined with Vishmi Gunaratne (30) for an 83-run opening stand, setting the platform for a successful chase.

Samarawickrama continued to dominate the innings, hitting 15 fours and a six. She received support from the rest of the top order, with Nilakshi de Silva (15) and Kavisha Dilhari (14) making useful contributions.

Ireland’s bowlers struggled to contain Samarawickrama’s onslaught. Freya Sargent, Arlene Kelly, and Delany each picked up a wicket, but they were unable to stem the flow of runs.

On the bowling front, Sri Lanka’s left-arm seam duo of Udeshika Prabhodani and Sugandika Kumari kept Ireland’s scoring in check. Offspinner Inoshi Priyadharshani was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 for 35.

The victory is a significant boost for Sri Lanka, who are without their star player Chamari Athapaththu. Samarawickrama’s 86 not out is the fourth-highest T20I score by a Sri Lanka batter and the highest by anyone other than Athapaththu.

Sri Lanka Women to Tour Ireland for T20Is and ODIs

Sri Lanka Women to Tour Ireland for T20Is and ODIs

Sri Lanka’s triumphant women’s cricket team, fresh from their Asia Cup victory, will embark on a historic tour of Ireland from August 11-20. This will mark Sri Lanka’s maiden bilateral tour of Ireland and Ireland’s first home series of the year.

The tour will feature two T20Is and three ODIs, with the first T20I scheduled for August 11 in Dublin. The second T20I will also be played in Dublin on August 13, followed by the ODI series in Belfast. The ODIs will be part of the 2022-2025 ICC Women’s Championship cycle.

Sri Lanka has enjoyed a remarkable run of form in 2024, winning 18 of their 23 white-ball matches. They also boast an unblemished record against Ireland, having won all six previous encounters. However, Ireland has yet to lose a bilateral series this year, making this tour a significant test for both teams.

The tour will provide a valuable opportunity for both sides to prepare for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in February 2023. Sri Lanka will be eager to continue their winning ways, while Ireland will be determined to prove their mettle against a top-ranked opponent.

The full schedule of Sri Lanka’s tour of Ireland 2024 is as follows:

* August 11: 1st T20I, Dublin
* August 13: 2nd T20I, Dublin
* August 16: 1st ODI, Belfast
* August 18: 2nd ODI, Belfast
* August 20: 3rd ODI, Belfast

All-Run Five Magic: Ireland and Zimbabwe Recreate 1992 India-Australia Classic

All-Run Five Magic: Ireland and Zimbabwe Recreate 1992 India-Australia Classic

Ireland and Zimbabwe Recreate Rare All-Run Five, Reminiscent of 1992 India-Australia Classic

On Day 4 of the one-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe at Belfast’s Civil Service Cricket Club, an extraordinary and rare incident occurred that sparked widespread excitement on social media. Ireland batters Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine completed an all-run five during their team’s second innings, a feat that brought back memories of a similar moment from 1992.

In the 18th over of Ireland’s chase of 158, McBrine punched a delivery from Zimbabwe’s Richard Ngarava through the covers. Zimbabwe fielder Tendai Chatara chased the ball and managed to stop it just inside the ropes. However, Tucker and McBrine showcased remarkable running between the wickets, completing five runs.

This exceptional play contributed significantly to Ireland’s recovery and eventual four-wicket victory, with McBrine remaining unbeaten on 55. The viral video of this incident brought to mind the 1992 match between India and Australia at the Adelaide Oval.

During India’s first innings, Javagal Srinath drove a pitch-up delivery from Australia’s Craig McDermott through the off-side. Allan Border, fielding at mid-off, chased the ball as it raced towards the boundary. Border managed to save the boundary, but the Indian tailenders Raju and Srinath ran five, marking a rare achievement in cricket history.

The resurgence of these videos has created a buzz on social media platforms, with fans and analysts reminiscing about these remarkable moments. These incidents, separated by decades, highlight the spirit of cricket and the unforgettable moments that make the sport beloved by millions worldwide.

Ireland Seal Historic Test Victory Over Zimbabwe

Ireland Seal Historic Test Victory Over Zimbabwe

Ireland’s historic Test victory over Zimbabwe was sealed on the fourth day at Belfast, marking their first home Test win and their second consecutive Test triumph.

After being reduced to 21 for 5 on the third evening, Ireland’s Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine staged a remarkable recovery with a 96-run partnership. Tucker scored a gritty 56, while McBrine remained unbeaten on 55, guiding Ireland to a four-wicket victory.

The morning session on the fourth day proved decisive as Ireland capitalized on the favorable batting conditions. Tucker and McBrine attacked the Zimbabwean bowlers, exploiting the gaps in the outfield and punishing loose deliveries.

Zimbabwe’s hopes of a comeback were dashed as Ngarava and Muzarabani, who had wreaked havoc on the third evening, failed to replicate their performance. The Irish batters remained disciplined and played with confidence, gradually chipping away at the target.

McBrine’s all-round performance was crucial for Ireland. In addition to his half-century, he also claimed four wickets in Zimbabwe’s second innings, including the key wicket of Craig Ervine.

Zimbabwe’s batting had been led by Tadiwanashe Marumani’s 74 in the first innings and Ryan Burl’s 57 in the second. However, Ireland’s bowlers, led by McBrine and Mark Adair, kept the Zimbabwean batsmen in check.

Ireland’s victory is a testament to their resilience and determination. After a disappointing start to the Test, they fought back admirably to secure a memorable win.

Ireland to Host Zimbabwe in Historic Test Debut at Civil Service Cricket Ground

Ireland to Host Zimbabwe in Historic Test Debut at Civil Service Cricket Ground

Ireland Set to Host Zimbabwe in Historic Test Debut at Civil Service Cricket Ground

The picturesque Civil Service Cricket Ground in Belfast, Northern Ireland, will make its Test debut on Thursday as Ireland welcomes Zimbabwe for the ninth Test match in their history. Ireland, who have won only one of their previous eight Tests, will be aiming to secure a second consecutive victory after their triumph over Afghanistan in March.

However, Ireland will be without their star bowler Josh Little, who has been allowed to develop his skills in franchise leagues around the world. In his absence, Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy will lead the Irish attack. For Adair, a native of Northern Ireland, playing a Test in Belfast holds special significance.

Zimbabwe, on the other hand, are facing one of their lowest points in international cricket. They have not participated in recent ODI and T20I World Cups and are not part of the World Test Championship. With only two Test wins since 2013, Zimbabwe will need to rely on the experience of captain Craig Ervine and Sean Williams.

One player to watch for Zimbabwe is Blessing Muzarabani, a tall fast bowler who has impressed in white-ball cricket. His ability to generate movement in the air and off the pitch could pose a challenge to Ireland’s batters.

Ireland is expected to make one change from their victory against Afghanistan, with left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys likely to replace Theo van Woerkom. Zimbabwe, with ten new players in their squad, could include Brian Bennett and Johnathan Campbell in their XI.

The weather forecast for Belfast predicts rain throughout the five-day Test, which could make batting conditions challenging. However, the venue has been a high-scoring ground in limited-overs matches.

Rizwan's Kohli Admiration Warms Hearts After Pakistan's T20I Win

Rizwan’s Kohli Admiration Warms Hearts After Pakistan’s T20I Win

Pakistan’s thrilling victory over Ireland in the second T20I leveled the three-match series at 1-1, but it was match-winner Mohammad Rizwan’s heartfelt acknowledgment of Virat Kohli that stole the hearts of the Indian batting legend’s fans.

Rizwan, who played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s comeback win, praised Kohli’s influence on Pakistani batsmen. “We have learnt a lot of things from Virat Kohli; I respect him,” said Rizwan, who is one of only two batters to average above 50 in T20Is.

Pakistan’s run-chase got off to a shaky start, but Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman launched a counter-attack, adding 140 runs for the third wicket. Rizwan’s unbeaten 75 off 46 balls and Zaman’s 78 off 40 balls powered Pakistan to a seven-wicket victory.

Rizwan’s admiration for Kohli highlights the respect and camaraderie that exists between the two cricketing nations. Kohli, who averages 51.75 in T20Is, has been a role model for many young batsmen, including Rizwan.

The T20 World Cup is just around the corner, and both India and Pakistan are in the same group. Their highly anticipated clash on June 9 in New York is sure to be a thrilling encounter.

Pakistan will play a decisive third T20I against Ireland on May 14 before heading to England for four T20Is. They will then fly to the US for the T20 World Cup, where they will face their arch-rivals India in a match that promises to be one of the highlights of the tournament.

Ireland's Stirling Takes Dig at Pakistan's 'Flattest Decks' After T20I Victory

Ireland’s Stirling Takes Dig at Pakistan’s ‘Flattest Decks’ After T20I Victory

Ireland’s captain, Paul Stirling, took a playful jab at Pakistan after his team’s triumph in the first T20I of a three-match series in Dublin on Friday. Former captain Andrew Balbirnie’s impressive 77 guided Ireland to their first victory over Pakistan in 17 years. This was only Ireland’s second win against Pakistan, following their surprising triumph at the 2007 50-over World Cup in the West Indies.

In a post-match interview, Stirling took a swipe at the pitches in Pakistan, describing them as the “flattest decks in the world.” He elaborated, “When you come here, especially from Pakistan, the flattest pitches in the world, ask them to bat first and see what they can get. We were happy to chase 180.”

After Ireland elected to bowl, Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam and opener Saim Ayub formed a solid partnership, adding 85 runs for the second wicket. Babar top-scored for the tourists with 57, while Ayub contributed 45. Iftikhar Ahmed (37) and Shadab Khan (14) made valuable contributions down the order, helping Pakistan reach a total of 182/6.

In response, Ireland chased down the target of 183 with a ball to spare. Ireland needed 40 runs from the last four overs, and Abbas Afridi dismissed George Dockrell for 24. With Ireland requiring 11 runs from the final over, Curtis Campher under-edged a boundary off Abbas and sealed the victory with a leg bye.

“I didn’t watch the last over. (I) went to the tent and put a towel over my head. I felt it was my job to get the team over the line… Harry said if we could bat normally till the 13th over, we could get the runs. That was a partnership which set it up,” said Balbirnie, who was dismissed in the 19th over.

Ireland Stuns Pakistan in Historic T20I Victory

Ireland Stuns Pakistan in Historic T20I Victory

Ireland’s historic victory over Pakistan in their first T20I encounter in 15 years was a testament to the hosts’ resilience and the brilliance of Andy Balbirnie. Balbirnie’s masterful 77, coupled with Harry Tector’s 36, laid the foundation for Ireland’s successful chase of 183.

The chase was far from straightforward, with Pakistan’s bowlers putting up a spirited fight. However, cameos from George Dockrell and Curtis Campher proved crucial in guiding Ireland over the line. The final overs were a tense affair, with Ireland needing 40 runs from the last four overs.

Pakistan’s bowlers started the final overs well, but a recurring theme of conceding late boundaries kept Ireland in the hunt. Shadab Khan’s missed chance to dismiss Balbirnie proved costly, as the Irish captain went on to score a match-winning knock.

Naseem Shah’s yorkers brought Pakistan back into the game, but Delany’s crunching drive off a full toss kept Ireland’s hopes alive. Shaheen Afridi’s penultimate over was impressive, but Campher’s audacious reverse ramp over the keeper left Abbas Afridi with a daunting task in the final over.

Campher’s composure under pressure was evident as he guided the first ball off the under-edge for four. He capitalized on a missed yorker to level the scores before sneaking a leg bye to seal a memorable victory for Ireland.

This historic win marks a significant milestone for Irish cricket and will undoubtedly boost their confidence ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Ireland Hosts Pakistan in T20I Series Opener in Dublin

Ireland Hosts Pakistan in T20I Series Opener in Dublin

Ireland Hosts Pakistan in T20I Series Opener

Ireland and Pakistan will kick off their three-match T20I series on Friday, May 10, at the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground in Dublin. The series marks Pakistan’s first international outing since their underwhelming performance against New Zealand at home.

Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, will be eager to bounce back from their 2-2 draw against the Black Caps. However, they will be without the services of pacer Mohammed Amir for the series opener. Ireland, on the other hand, will be missing their star pacer Joshua Little, who is recovering from an injury.

Despite the absence of key players, both teams will be looking to make a statement ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup. Ireland, in particular, will be keen to impress as they prepare for the global tournament.

Match Details:

* Date: Friday, May 10
* Venue: Clontarf Cricket Club Ground, Dublin
* Start Time: 7:30 PM IST

Broadcast Information:

* The match will not be telecast in India.
* Live streaming will be available on FanCode.

Key Players to Watch:

* Pakistan: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi
* Ireland: Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, Mark Adair

Series Preview:

Pakistan will be looking to assert their dominance against Ireland, who they have defeated in all three of their previous T20I encounters. However, Ireland will be determined to upset the odds and prove their mettle ahead of the T20 World Cup.

The series opener promises to be a thrilling contest between two teams with contrasting strengths and weaknesses. Pakistan’s batting prowess will be tested by Ireland’s disciplined bowling attack, while Ireland’s batting lineup will need to find a way to overcome Pakistan’s formidable pace attack.

Josh Little to Miss Ireland's T20I Series for IPL Commitment

Josh Little to Miss Ireland’s T20I Series for IPL Commitment

Josh Little, Ireland’s star fast bowler, will remain with the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) until their final group match on May 16. This decision has been made with the approval of Cricket Ireland, allowing Little to miss Ireland’s upcoming T20I series against Pakistan and tri-series in the Netherlands.

Little’s absence from the Ireland squad is a significant blow as they prepare for the T20 World Cup in June. However, Cricket Ireland has allowed him to stay with the Titans due to his impressive performances in the IPL. In his first appearance of the season, Little took 4 for 45 against the Chennai Super Kings.

Ireland’s provisional 15-man squad for the World Cup remains unchanged from the one that faced Afghanistan in their recent T20I series. The squad will face Pakistan in three T20Is, starting in Dublin on Friday, and then play a tri-series with Netherlands and Scotland from May 19-24.

Paul Stirling, Ireland’s white-ball captain, will appear at his eighth successive T20 World Cup. He is the fifth-highest run-scorer in men’s T20I history and has played a crucial role in Ireland’s success in the tournament.

The squad has undergone minor changes since 2022, when Ireland reached the Super 12s. Ross Adair, Neil Rock, and Ben White have been added to the squad, while Stephen Doheny, Fionn Hand, Conor Olphert, and Simi Singh have been omitted.

“The squad is one that we have gradually developed and tested out over the last 18 or so months,” said Heinrich Malan, Ireland’s coach. “We have an intensive block of T20 cricket coming up this month ahead of the T20 World Cup, and we will be aiming to win as many of those games as possible.”

Ireland will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against India on June 5 and will face Canada, USA, and Pakistan in the group stage.

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