Comparatively minnow side Ireland once again stunned England at the bigger stage as they pulled off a huge upset in the ongoing T20 World Cup with a five-run victory over World no.2 in a rain-curtailed match.
Batting first Ireland posted a competitive total of 157 riding on skipper Andy Balbirnie's impressive 62. In reply England could only manage to score 105/5 in 14.3 overs as they were five runs behind on the DLS scoring method, giving Ireland a famous victory when the game was called off a few minutes later. They had defeated Afghanistan in their tournament opener.
Gutted Buttler's confession on hapless defeat
Meanwhile, England skipper Jos Buttler conceded that his side erred in the loss against Ireland, leaving the former champions under pressure to make the semifinals of the T20 World Cup.
With Ireland, Sri Lanka, England and Australia winning and losing a match each the top two spots are up for grabs in a tough group 1.
"I thought we were poor in the first 10 overs and let them get away. We were not consistent enough, let them score on both sides of the wicket. The second ten overs were much better.
"Ireland were excellent, they outplayed us. We know we have made a mistake here and have put more pressure on us, but certainly if you needed a game to get going then England-Australia is one of those," Buttler said at the post-match presentation.
It was Ireland’s second massive upset of the tournament after they beat West Indies in the first round to send the two-time champions home.
England were among the title favourites and heavily-fancied to beat Ireland after opening their tournament with a five-wicket win over Afghanistan at the weekend.
Instead the shock defeat has thrown Group 1 wide open with Australia, Sri Lanka, Ireland and England all now with one win and one loss. Unbeaten New Zealand and Afghanistan play later on Wednesday.
Ireland skipper Andy Balbirnie was delighted by the win against one of the tournament favourites.
“We were disappointed with losing seven wickets. It was tough, their bowlers had good variations. But we were off the blocks with Lorcan Tucker. It's amazing, kind of emotional,” Balbirnie said.
"To come here against tournament favourites is amazing. A few of the fans in the crowd have extended their stay. Their support has been wonderful and will do a lot to grow the game back home.
“We have Afghanistan here on Friday, quick turnaround. Look forward to it. We were fortunate drops did not cost us but we need to improve,” he further added.
