IND vs IRE: Captain Paul Stirling blames toss result for Ireland's batting collapse against India after eight-wicket loss

Ireland were bowled out for 96 in 16 overs by India as the batters failed to assess the pitch conditions. Ireland’s top six batters failed to make a mark and it was Gareth Delany’s 14-ball 26 cameo that helped them get past their lowest score in T20 World Cups. After a comprehensive eight-wicket loss to Rohit Sharma’s India, Ireland captain Paul Stirling said that coin toss was crucial as the pitch had help for the pacers. 
 

“It was a tough one, the toss played a pretty crucial part, the pitch did a lot and we weren't up to that challenge. India bowled well and put us under pressure. It was how to go about it, wanted to put pressure back on the bowlers but everything we tried went up in the air. Their lengths were outstanding,” Stirling said in the post-match presentation.
 

Ireland will go up against Canada in their next clash at the same venue on June 7. Stirling hopes for a batter show against Canada who were beaten by the co-hosts USA in the tournament opener. 
 

“We've got a big game or two coming up any time out in the middle is crucial. Hopefully gives us a better run come Friday," he said.
 

Ireland's net run rate (NRR) took a massive hit after the loss to India. They are below Canada on Group A points table and will need big wins to have a chance to advance to the next round.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma provides update on his injury that made him leave the field retired hurt against Ireland
 

Stirling falls early

Stirling was the first to fall against the new ball. Arshdeep Singh got his wicket off the first ball of the second over. The opener scored just two runs from six balls.  

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma becomes first ever batter in international cricket to achieve this feat, surpasses Babar Azam too with 37-ball 52
 

Rohit unsure about pitch’s nature too

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was clueless about how the pitch will behave as well. 
 

“I said it at the toss as well. Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. Not aware on what it is to play like on a pitch that's five months old. I don't think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers,” Rohit said. 
 

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