DUBLIN – The atmosphere turned tense as Afghan supporters breached security barriers, infiltrating the stadium and engaging in altercations with Pakistani fans during the second match of the Pakistan-Ireland cricket series.
The disruption occurred following the conclusion of the match, escalating tensions between the two groups.
The reports show that Afghan fans confronted Pakistani cricket icon Shaheen Afridi, resulting in a verbal exchange.
Security personnel were swiftly alerted, leading to the removal of a suspicious individual from the premises.
Despite the off-field issue, on-field action witnessed Pakistan securing victory over Ireland by seven wickets.
Ireland posted a competitive total of 193 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Pakistan successfully chased down the target in the 17th over, with three wickets in hand.
The performances included Fakhar Zaman’s impressive 78 runs, complemented by Mohammad Rizwan’s solid 75-run contribution.
However, Pakistan’s middle-order batsman Azam Khan failed to make an impact, managing only 30 runs, while Captain Babar Azam departed without scoring.
For Ireland, Lorcan Tucker stood out with a resilient innings of 51 runs, supported by Harry Tector (32), Gareth Delany (28) and Curtis Campher (22).
On the bowling front for Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi led the charge with three crucial wickets, backed by Abbas Afridi’s two dismissals.
Mohammad Amir and Naseem Shah also contributed with one wicket each.
With this victory, Pakistan leveled the T20 series 1-1 after three matches. Ireland had previously clinched the opening encounter, defeating Pakistan by five wickets.
