India Faces Upsetting Loss to Ireland in T20I Series Opener

In a stunning upset, India lost to Ireland by 34 runs in the first T20I of their series, marking Ireland's first victory over India in any format. Despite a strong squad, India struggled, with only Abhishek Sharma making a significant contribution. The team hopes to bounce back in the second match, scheduled for June 28. A win is crucial for India to avoid losing their first-ever series against Ireland. Following this series, India will tour England for a series of T20Is and ODIs. Stay tuned for more updates on the matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 27, 2026, 17:10 IST

India's Shocking Defeat Against Ireland

In a surprising turn of events, India experienced a 34-run defeat to Ireland during the first T20I of their two-match series on Friday (June 26). This marked Ireland's inaugural victory over India across all formats. Despite India fielding a full-strength squad, the Irish team was comprised of a second-string lineup. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was not included in India's playing XI for the opener, leading fans to hope for his debut in the upcoming match scheduled for Sunday (June 28). Aakash Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, indicated that he would maintain India's top three batters, which suggests Sooryavanshi may not play again. He stated, "The big question will be whether Vaibhav should be played in the next match. It's a tough one. Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson didn't score runs. No one except Abhishek Sharma scored runs. There is a clamour. It might be politically incorrect, but I would still not play him. I will still not drop Sanju Samson or Ishan Kishan. I will field the same top three and expect a different outcome, and it's par for the course. We might score 250 if we get to bat first next time. We will bat like that because we are capable of doing that," he added.

Abhishek Sharma was the standout performer among the top three, scoring 50 runs off just 20 balls in the chase for a target of 182. In contrast, Sanju Samson managed only 5 runs, while Ishan Kishan was dismissed for a mere 1. Shreyas Iyer, returning as captain for the T20I squad, scored 3 runs off 7 balls. A victory in the second match would allow India to level the series, while a loss would result in their first-ever series defeat against Ireland.

Upcoming Tour to England

India to Tour England After Ireland Series

Following the conclusion of the Ireland series, the Indian team will head to England for a white-ball series. The five T20Is are scheduled for July 1, 4, 7, 9, and 11, with three ODIs set for July 14, 16, and 19.