Former India cricketer predicts Ireland win over Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2024

Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has predicted that Ireland will triumph over Pakistan in the Group A clash between the two nations in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024.

Discussing the topic on Ravichandran Ashwin's YouTube channel, Uthappa mentioned Ireland's strong players like batters Barbernie, Stirling, and Tucker, and bowler Josh Little, who have performed well internationally.

 “Ireland can potentially cause an upset. Ireland are in the same group as India, Pakistan, Canada and USA. So, where is the upset coming from?” Ashwin asked on his YouTube channel.

“Pakistan. I was waiting to give the answer when you asked the question,” came Uthappa’s prompt reply.

“You were involved in 2007, Ireland have very happy memories against Pakistan, especially in the Caribbean Islands. This World Cup is going to be in the United States and the Caribbean Islands,” Ashwin said.

“Who are players who can make this upset possible,” he asked.

Uthappa said: “For me, I think it is definitely someone like the opening batters, Barbernie and Sterling. They are high-quality players. I think Stirling is someone who is quite underrated. Goes around the world playing league cricket and goes about his business in a very stellar fashion. I think he plays cricket very, very well. Just his approach to cricket is very good. Locan Tucker is also a solid bat. Wicket-keeper. Has consistently performed well.

“If you look at the batting order, I think it looks quite strong in itself. Their bowling attack is also pretty good. Josh Little leads the attack He’s been very impressive not just for Ireland but but even when he has come to India to play in the IPL. Plays leagues around the world. He is a quick customer. Unassuming, Ge seems like he is not very quick. But he is actually very quick. Bowls a very heavy ball. Curtis Campher is someone who has also done really well for them. So, for me, Mark Adair is also someone who has done well.”

Uthappa pointed out Pakistan's inconsistent fielding, especially in ICC tournaments, suggesting that Ireland could take advantage and secure a win.

“The last time a team was upset by Ireland, that team went on to win the World Cup. England lost to Ireland in that particular World Cup and tey went on to win the World Cup. So are you suggesting anything like that?” Ashwin teased.

“It’s just that Pakistan have been one of those teams where, in a tournament, especially in an ICC tournament, they have always been upset by somebody. There is one of those games. See, their fielding has been particularly iffy at all times. we have seen it in the latest Asia Cup that even happened. I think, across time, in fact, Pakistan’s fielding has been very shady I that sense. So I think, one of those games will happen where they will not turn up. I feel a team like Ireland can certainly upset them,” Uthappa said.

Pakistan recently triumphed in a three-match T20I series against Ireland. Despite losing the opening match, Pakistan made a comeback by winning the final two games, securing the series victory.