India will be under pressure to bounce back when they face Ireland in the second and final T20I in Belfast on Sunday. After a shocking 34-run defeat in the series opener, Shreyas Iyer’s men must win to level the series and avoid a rare bilateral loss to Ireland.
The visitors struggled in all departments during the first T20I. Chasing 183, India’s batting line-up failed to build partnerships and was bowled out for 148. Ireland, meanwhile, produced a disciplined all-round performance to register their first-ever international victory over India and move within one win of a historic series triumph.
India seek response from senior batters
India will expect a much-improved display from its top order. Captain Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan will need to take responsibility after their disappointing outing in the opening game.
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The team management could also consider changes to the playing XI. Teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi remains in contention for his international debut, while the bowling attack will aim to be more disciplined after conceding crucial runs in the death overs determined to show why they are among the world’s strongest T20 teams and ensure the series ends level.
The Historic moment for Ireland 👌🏻
— Amir (@Khanu_3) June 26, 2026
India beaten by Ireland very first time. pic.twitter.com/Ce7aOONMVD
With another international assignment against England approaching, India will be eager to regain momentum and finish the tour on a positive note.
Ireland chase historic series win
Ireland head into the final T20I full of confidence after one of the biggest wins in their cricket history. Captain Lorcan Tucker anchored the innings with a brilliant half-century before Gareth Delany’s late assault helped the hosts post a challenging total.
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The Irish bowlers then backed up the batters with a clinical performance, making full use of the conditions to dismantle India’s powerful batting line-up.
A victory in the second T20I would hand Ireland their first-ever T20I series win over India and mark another memorable milestone for the home side. India, however, will be det
