Canada secured their inaugural Twenty20 World Cup victory with a remarkable 12-run win over Ireland in a Group ‘A’ clash in New York on Friday.
Having set a target of only 138, the non-Test nation demonstrated exceptional bowling and fielding skills to restrict Ireland to 125 for the loss of seven wickets in their full quota of 20 overs.
After a cautious start of 26-0, Ireland experienced a collapse, losing six wickets for just 33 runs, leading to a score of 59-6.
A notable partnership of 62 runs in seven overs between George Dockrell (30 not out) and all-rounder Mark Adair (34) revived Irish hopes. However, Canada’s paceman Jeremy Gordon remained composed, conceding only three runs in the final over and dismissing Adair, sealing Canada’s victory.
Canada had struggled initially, reaching 53-4 after losing the toss, but a crucial partnership of 75 runs in 10 overs between Nicholas Kirton (49) and Shreyas Movva (37) propelled them to a total of 137-7.
This victory marked Canada’s comeback from an earlier defeat against the United States. On the contrary, this result was Ireland’s second successive loss at the tournament, following an eight-wicket defeat against India.
Andrew Balbirnie (17) and Lorcan Tucker (10) were the only Irish top-order batsmen to reach double figures, with captain Paul Stirling’s dismissal by Gordon being the turning point.
Canada’s impressive fielding was highlighted by Curtis Campher’s excellent catch by Aaron Johnson, further exemplifying their prowess.
Barry McCarthy was Ireland’s standout bowler with figures of 2-24, while Kirton played a crucial role for Canada, hitting 16 runs off one Craig Young over.
The final result saw Canada emerge victorious by 12 runs.
