Ireland Stun World Champions India by 34 Runs in Historic First T20I Victory

2 weeks ago

Ireland pulled off a stunning upset by defeating world champions India by **34 runs** in the first T20 International in Belfast, registering their **first-ever victory over India in an international match**.

Batting first in the opening game of the two-match T20I series, Ireland posted **182/9** in their allotted 20 overs.

Captain **Lorcan Tucker** led the charge with a well-made **50**, while **Gareth Delany** played a blistering knock of **49**, helping Ireland set a challenging target of 183.

In reply, India’s batting lineup collapsed under pressure and was bowled out for **148** in the 19th over.

**Abhishek Sharma** was India’s top scorer with a quickfire **49 off 20 balls**, but none of the other batters managed to make a significant contribution.

Ireland’s debutant fast bowler **Matt Houlard** starred with the ball, claiming **three wickets** to earn the **Player of the Match** award.

With the victory, Ireland take a **1-0 lead** in the two-match series and celebrate a landmark achievement, having defeated India for the first time in international cricket.