Shining Bumrah: On Friday, August 18, India defeated Ireland by a two-run margin in the first Twenty20 International, which was hampered by rain. When the rain began to fall in their chase of 140, India had reached 47 for 2 in 6.5 overs. Thanks to a strong opening pair from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal, the visitors were 2 runs ahead of the Duckworth Lewis and Stern (DLS) par score.
While the hitters did just enough to stay ahead of the DLS par score, the bowling attack, led by skipper Jasprit Bumrah, excelled. Bumrah performed admirably in his first competitive appearance since September 2022, scooping up two wickets and bowling 16 dot balls in a four-over effort
However, Jasprit Bumrah’s spectacular performance on his comeback to the international set-up was the highlight of the match, which lasted only 26.5 overs. With team management and selectors keeping a close eye on Bumrah’s performance in Ireland ahead of Monday’s Aisa Cup selection meeting, the fast bowler came out all guns blazing.
Bumrah delivered 16 dot balls in his 4-over performance and took two wickets, both in the first over after winning the toss as captain and opting to field.
Prasidh Krishna, who was also making his comeback from a back injury, took two wickets, while Ravi Bishnoi starred with figures of 2 for 23.
Curtis Campher, who salvaged Ireland’s innings after they were down to 59 for 6, was caught by Arshdeep Singh.
The two leaders shook hands as thousands of fans, mostly Indian cricket fans, were left dissatisfied as Ireland were denied the opportunity to put additional pressure on India after losing two wickets in the same over of the chase.
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