Srinagar: Pakistan skipper Babar Azam has said that he is relieved to win the second T20I vs Ireland and level the series.
Pakistan chased the target of 193 runs in the 17th over for the loss of three wickets on the back of performances by Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman and Azam Khan.
“I’m relieved, credit to all batters. After bowling, we decided to chase before the 18th over. We lost a few wickets early on but we kept the momentum going,” Babar said in post match interview.
“It was a good decision (to bowl) because it was overcast and there was a bit of rain. Bowling in the second half was good but the way Ireland played the last three overs, all credit to them,” he added.
“Fakhar is very experienced and played according to the situation which demanded positive intent. It’s a good side, we got positives in this match and will look to give 100% in the next match. Very excited to see Pakistan fans, it was jam-packed, enjoyed the vibe and hope families will come to support us in the next match,” he concluded.
Pakistan struggled initially in the chase, losing Saim Ayub (6) and skipper Babar Azam (0).
But, Rizwan and Fakhar paired up to form a gigantic partnership. Their 140-run partnership is Pakistabn’s highest for the 3rd wicket in T20Is, breaking the record of 105 between Rizwan and Haider Ali.
Rizwan remained not out on 75 off 46 balls with the help of fours sixes and six fours while Fakhar hit 78 off 40, powered six fours and as many sixes.
Wicketkeeper-batter Azam took on the Ireland bowlers, smacking 30* off 10 which included a four and four maximums.
Earlier, Ireland posted 193/7 after being put into bat first by Pakistan, their highest-ever total at the Clontarf Cricket Club