Ireland recorded their first victory against Pakistan in 17 years with a five-wicket victory in the first match of their T20 series in Dublin.
Opener Andrew Balbirnie’s superb 77 helped Ireland reach their victory target of 183-5 with one ball to spare.
It was Ireland’s second victory against Pakistan – the first since the 2007 World Cup – who had earlier recorded a score of 182-6 with Babar Azam (57) and Saim Ayub (45) as top scorers .
Balbirnie hit two sixes and 10 fours in his 55-ball knock and he received valuable support from Harry Tector (36 from 27 deliveries) and George Dockrell (24 from 12).
Gareth Delany (10 not out) and Curtis Campher (15 not out) came together for Ireland’s final partnership with their side on 167-5, needing 17 from eight balls, and they headed home for the winning match after a rest match.
The two parties will meet again on Sunday and Tuesday at the same location on Castle Avenue in Clontarf.
It is one of the greatest sporting events of a generation. Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk face off for the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world on Saturday May 18, live on Sky Sports Box Office. Book the fight now.
Ad content | Stream Sky Sports NOW
Sky Sports online NOW
Stream Sky Sports live contract-free with a 1-month or 1-day subscription NOW. Instant access to live action from the Premier League, EFL, F1, England Cricket and much more.
