England, one of the favourites of the ongoing T20 World Cup, were defeated by their neighbours, Ireland, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. England were restricted to 105-5 in 14.3 overs before the rain played spoilsport, and subsequently the match was called off.
This is the first time Ireland had defeated them in the T20 World Cup. Indian spinner Amit Mishra took a dig at England after their loss. Mishra’s argument was based on the debate on the Spirit of Cricket.
Several former and current England players said they were not okay with a bowler running out a batter on the non-striker’s end, even though it is clearly stated in the rules that it was allowed.
“Congratulations @cricketireland on a massive victory. Hope England doesn’t say winning through DLS isn’t in the spirit of the game,” said Amit Mishra in a tweet.
Congratulations @cricketireland on a massive victory. Hope England doesn’t say winning through DLS isn’t in the spirit of the game. 😄 #EngvsIRE pic.twitter.com/0S4L5f1ZTi
— Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) October 26, 2022
The Mankading incident of Deepti Sharma at the home of cricket Lords earlier this year has again reignited this debate amongst the cricketing fraternity. Even though this is within the rules of the game, people raise questions about it being against the spirit of playing.
Ireland prevail over neighbours England
England was seen beginning their chase with a disaster as their openers, Captain Jos Buttler and Alex Hales, were dismissed cheaply. Dawid Malan was seen struggling to score at a run-a-ball. Fionn hand dismissed Ben Stokes at the end of the powerplay. When Moeen Ali was beginning to look like himself, rain interrupted the game.
Ireland scored 157 runs, led by their captain Andrew Balbirnie’s half-century. He and Lorcan Tucker set the foundation for the team but could not finish the innings on a high.
Balbirnie was named the player of the match. Ireland and England will face their subsequent encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground against Afghanistan and Australia, respectively on Friday.
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