Pakistan team arrived for the second game of the three-match T20I series following a surprising loss in the first match against Ireland at Clontarf Cricket Ground. However, Pakistan rebounded admirably on Sunday, showcasing a refined performance to secure a decisive victory and level the series.
Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman set the stage with a solid foundation, while Azam Khan effectively sealed the match.
Following his stellar performance in Pakistan’s triumph over Ireland in the second T20I, wicket-keeper batter Rizwan expressed his admiration for an Indian player.
During his acceptance speech after receiving the Player of the Match award, Rizwan expressed his admiration for Virat Kohli. This commendation comes ahead of Pakistan’s upcoming clash with India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Group stage, set to take place at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
Rizwan’s remarks regarding Kohli were succinct, acknowledging him as a skilled player and stating that he drew inspiration from Kohli’s batting technique. He concluded by expressing profound respect for the former Indian captain.
“He [Kohli] is a good player, and we learned a lot from him; I respect him,” Rizwan said after the match.
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Pakistan levels the series against Ireland
Pakistan levelled the series with Ireland with victory in the second T20I match. Put in to bat first, the Irish side posted a competitive total of 193/6, with Lorcan Tucker (51), Harry Tector (32), and Gareth Delany (28) making valuable contributions. Shaheen Afridi starred for Pakistan, taking three wickets during his spell.
Pakistan faced an early setback, losing two wickets with just 13 runs on the board. But, Fakhar (78) and Rizwan (75) steadied the innings with a formidable 140-run partnership in the middle overs.
The 25-year-old Azam provided the finishing touches by scoring 30 runs in just 10 balls. His explosive batting ensured Pakistan’s smooth chase as they comfortably reached the target in 16.5 overs.
