Ireland pulled off a historic upset, defeating the 20-over world champions India 2-0 in their bilateral T20 series. The decisive moment came in a thrilling one-run victory on a cloudy afternoon in Belfast.
Ireland's bowlers, led by player-of-the-series Jai Moondra and Matt Hollard, dismantled India's powerful batting lineup. Moondra's early strikes, dismissing openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma and captain Shreyas Iyer within the first three overs, left India reeling at 19-3.
Despite a fighting half-century from Tilak Varma, India fell just short. Needing eight runs from the final two balls, Harshit Rana was caught attempting a six off Harry Tector's penultimate delivery, sealing Ireland's victory.
"It's hard to describe... it's an amazing feeling," said Moondra. This marks India's first T20 bilateral series loss since 2023.
The Indian team will next travel to England for a five-match T20 series starting July 1.