IRE vs PAK: Paul Stirling Mocks Babar Azam as a Flat Track Bully
Paul Stirling also said that Pakistan serves the flattest pitches in the world.
Ireland took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series by defeating Pakistan by five wickets in the first T20I match in Dublin. Andrew Balbirnie was the hero for the hosts, having scored 77 runs from just 55 balls in the intense run-chase.
Pakistan, putting to bat first, scored 182 runs for the loss of six wickets, with Babar Azam leading the charge with a 57-run knock from 43 deliveries. Saim Ayub also contributed with 45 runs off 29 balls.
Ireland, in their reply, capitalised on Balbirnie’s 77 runs from 55 balls, while also receiving contributions from Harry Tector, George Dockrell, and some finishing touches by Curtis Campher.
Paul Stirling, Ireland’s captain, subtly mocked the Pakistan cricket team in the post-match conference, implying that they offer the flattest pitches in international cricket. Here’s what he said:
“When you come here, especially from Pakistan, the flattest pitches in the world, ask them to bat first and see what they can get. 170 was OK but we leaked a few, but we were happy to chase 180.”
Stirling also lauded Andrew Balbirnie for his outstanding knock:
“Brilliant knock from Balbirnie, he got through the powerplay and picked up the pace later on as well. He timed it to perfection, it was a fantastic knock.”
It’s worth noting that this is Ireland’s first T20 international win against Pakistan since 2007. Additionally, what adds to the intrigue is that Ireland and Pakistan find themselves in the same group for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.
