India suffered a major setback in the opening T20I against Ireland, going down by 34 runs in Belfast. Chasing 183, the visitors were bowled out for 148 in 18.5 overs as Ireland registered their first-ever victory over India in international cricket. With the two-match T20I series on the line, Team India could consider a few changes for the second and final T20I.
Ireland Unlikely to Tinker With Winning Combination
Despite missing several first-choice players, Ireland produced a commanding all-round performance in the series opener. The young squad impressed with both bat and ball, giving the hosts little reason to alter their winning XI.
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One of the standout performers was fast bowler Jay Moondra, who finished with figures of 2/25 from his four overs. Following such a convincing display, Ireland are expected to stick with the same lineup for the second T20I.
Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Have to Wait Again?
Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may have to wait a little longer for his international debut. After the batting unit failed in the first match, India could be reluctant to make changes at the top of the order, especially with the series still alive.
The only likely adjustment could come in the bowling department, where leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi may replace pacer Prasidh Krishna after the latter endured an expensive outing in the first T20I.
Probable India Playing XI
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma (vice-captain), Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi/Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.
Probable Ireland Playing XI
Tim Tector, Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (captain & wicketkeeper), Benjamin Calitz, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Liam McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Gavin Hoey and Jay Mundra.
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