ENG vs IRE: Ireland Skipper Andy Balbirnie Feeling Satisfied After Beating England

Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie voiced dissatisfaction with his team’s batting after their 5-run victory over England in the 2017 ICC T20 World Cup. He said that his team will aim to capitalise on the momentum brought about by this victory. 

Ireland defeated the previous champions by five runs using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in the Group 1, Super 12 match of the ICC T20 World Cup on Wednesday at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Rain ruined England’s already wobbly chase. 

Andy Balbirnie Disappointed With Ireland’s Batting Collapse

“We were slightly disappointed with the way we finished, we lost 7 wickets for not a lot and they took the momentum away from us. Our message was to just create chances and we know how this England team like to play, if we take every chance then we would be in with a shot.

“It was tough, they have some express pace and different variations, we rode our luck, took a few blows and moved forward,” said Balbirnie at a post-match presentation.  

“The platform was pretty well laid and Tucker played well. It is amazing and emotional. We have not played a game here, to come and play the tournament favourites, with so many big names and to put on a show is very satisfying. We had a great week in Hobart and to do this was pretty special.

“A few of them extended their trip, they are so passionate about the game and we are trying to sport big in Ireland. Quite a quick around but we have the momentum and will try to make the most of it,” he added.  

Andy Balbirnie And Lorcan Tucker Show Fine Form With The Bat

Ireland was dismissed for 157 in 19.2 overs after England sent them in to bat first. With a superb 62 off 47 balls, captain Balbirnie recorded the game’s best score. He also had an 82-run second-wicket stand with wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker (34). 

All throughout the inning, England’s bowlers dominated but for one partnership. In his four overs, pacer Mark Wood claimed three wickets for 34 runs. In his three overs, Liam Livingstone also claimed three wickets for 17 runs. Ben Stokes only took one wicket, while Sam Curran took two. 

When chasing 158, England kept dropping wickets often and was once reduced to 86/5. The former champions had some hope because to strikes from Moeen Ali (24*) and Dawid Malan (35). 

The rain stopped play when England was five runs short of the DLS par score, resulting in a five-run defeat. 

With two points and one victory after two games, Ireland has moved up to position four in the points standings with this victory. With two points from its two games and one victory, England is now in third place. 

Also Read:ICC T20 World Cup 2022 Points Table After England vs Ireland