The third T20I clash between India and Ireland, scheduled at Malahide, was regrettably abandoned due to incessant rain, resulting in a drawn contest without a single ball bowled. The outcome also marks India's triumph in the three-match series, securing a convincing 2-0 victory.
With the rainfall persisting steadily, the anticipated clash was deterred, and the toss did not take place. Covers remained securely draped over the square area, signifying the impossibility of gameplay under the prevailing conditions.
A decisive factor in the match's potential progression was the requirement that it commence by 6:47 pm local time to facilitate a five-overs-a-side encounter. After an initial inspection by the umpires, another assessment was scheduled for 5:45 pm local time. Despite temporary respite from the rain and the removal of covers with players taking to the field, the presence of damp patches on the outfield dashed hopes for any match play, culminating in a mutual agreement between Jasprit Bumrah and Paul Stirling to abandon the match.
A rather ironic turn of events followed as the sun emerged from behind clouds after the match's abandonment. As Bumrah handed over the trophy to Rinku Singh during a group photo of the Indian team, the sun's appearance added a touch of irony to the situation.
In the preceding two T20Is, India exhibited their prowess to clinch the series. In the first encounter, India secured a thrilling victory by two runs through the DLS method, accompanied by Bumrah's commendable performance of 2-24 in his international comeback. Bumrah's remarkable comeback earned him the Player of the Match award, showcasing his triumphant resurgence to international cricket after an 11-month hiatus due to a back injury.
The second match highlighted Ruturaj Gaikwad's impressive fifty, complemented by impactful innings from Sanju Samson and Rinku Singh, propelling India to a competitive total of 185-5. This foundation paved the way for India's triumph over Ireland, who managed 152-8, resulting in a 33-run victory.
Looking ahead, India's next international venture is the much-anticipated 2023 Asia Cup. The team is set to commence its campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2, followed by a match against Nepal on September 4, both of which will unfold at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
The tournament's subsequent stages will feature the top two teams from Groups A and B progressing to the Super Fours. This phase will encompass three additional matches at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium, culminating in the final showdown on September 17.
Following the conclusion of the six-team extravaganza, India will engage in a home ODI series against Australia from September 22 to 27. Subsequently, India will embark on their journey in the Men's ODI World Cup, initiating their campaign against Australia on October 8 in Chennai, setting the stage for an electrifying cricketing season.