In the aftermath of Pakistan's unexpected loss to Ireland in the first T20I match in Dublin, Pakistani all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed has voiced his confidence in his team's ability to reverse their fortunes

Speaking candidly in a video released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Iftikhar reflected on his crucial cameo of 37 runs off just 15 balls, which helped Pakistan post a competitive total. He emphasized the need for the team to perform at their best, acknowledging lapses in fielding that cost them dearly in the match.

"When I came in, runs were needed, and I played my natural game. However, as a team, we didn't perform to our potential. We lacked in fielding, dropped a catch, and conceded a couple of boundaries," remarked Iftikhar.

Looking ahead to the remaining matches in the series, Iftikhar exuded confidence in Pakistan's capabilities, stating, "With the quality our team possesses, we can make a comeback against Ireland. We will strive to win the next matches against England and carry that confidence into the upcoming T20 World Cup."

The series now hangs in the balance as Pakistan gears up to face Ireland in the second T20I at Clontarf on May 12th, followed by the third and final match on May 14th. With both teams eyeing a series victory, the stage is set for a captivating showdown as Pakistan seeks redemption and Ireland aims to maintain their winning momentum.

Squads:

Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Andrew Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Graham Hume, Barry McCarthy, Neil Rock, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young.

Pakistan: Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Khan.