Canada shock Ireland in T20 World Cup a day after USA's stunning win over Pak

Cricket in North America is heading for a revolution. A day after USA defeated Pakistan in Super Over, Canada sprang a surprise by beating Ireland, a Test nation, in a T20 World Cup match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.

The Canadians won by 12 runs as the Irish could not chase down the 138-run target in a Group A game.

This was Canada’s only second win over a full member nation – the last one came in 2019 and that too was against Ireland.

Canada relied on the brilliance of Nicholas Kirton to reach 137/7 in their 20 overs – the highest score on this ground in three matches played so far in the tournament. Kirton made 49 off 35 balls with three fours and two sixes.

The bowling unit then stood up to deny Ireland, picking seven wickets and surviving a late onslaught to snatch the win.

“A very proud moment for the team. The way Kirton and [Shreyas] Movva (36) batted, we knew we had a good total to defend. We needed a good performance from the bowling unit and I am so proud of my bowlers for putting their hand up and delivering,” said Canada captain Saad Bin Zafar, who is a left-arm spinner.

“The wicket got a bit slow today, so it worked to our advantage. We gambled with an extra spinner and I feel both myself and Junaid [Siddiqui] bowled really well.”

The Canadians bowled very smartly and all the bowlers were economical.

Ireland were reduced to 59/6 in the 13th over. Mark Adair hit 34 off 24 balls with three fours and a six towards the end.

Nicholas Kirton won the Player of the Match Award.

T20 World Cup, Cricket, Canada, Ireland, Pakistan, USA