2nd T20I: 'Still trying to sink in,' says Jai Moondra after Ireland's 2-0 series sweep over India
Belfast, June 28
Ireland left-arm pacer Jai Moondra said he was still processing the feeling of being named Player of the Match and Player of the Series in the side's 2-0 historic series sweep over India, adding that his maiden experience of playing international cricket was 'amazing' and credited his teammates for keeping him grounded.
Moondra rattled India in their chase of 155 by trapping Sanju Samson lbw, before dismissing Abhishek Sharma and Shreyas Iyer to end up with a three-for as Ireland got a one-run win to secure a memorable series victory.
"Still trying to sink in the feeling. I know it's hard to describe in one word. It's an amazing feeling playing against the best, testing yourself. So just doing the basic for longer, that was the plan. Credit to team members and management. Keep it simple. There are gonna be tough times, but keep calm and composed and do your thing. Oh, I'm still trying to process it," Moondra said in the post-match presentation ceremony.
On his mindset while bowling to Samson, Moondra said, "Just keep it simple, do what you have been doing. It's gonna be tough, little margin for error. So just keep what you have been doing and just stick to the plan."
Reflecting on setbacks he had while making his way in the Ireland set-up after arriving here in 2021, Moondra added, "Well, everyone have ups and downs, so you just have to hang in there and keep going through that. Nothing more."
He also praised the environment in the Ireland camp: "Well, they made feel it was like one of them, like nothing different from that. It was playing amazing, good environment, good people. So just doing the duty they have given to me."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Jai Moondra's story is truly inspiring 🌟 From arriving in Ireland in 2021 to leading them to a historic series win over India. That calmness he showed under pressure... amazing! Sometimes the underdogs teach us the biggest lessons. Congratulations to Ireland! 👏
Yes, Ireland played well. But let's be honest: our team management has some serious issues. Sending the same batting order, poor shot selection from our top order... Abhishek Sharma needs time to settle, but Shreyas Iyer should have done better. Need to rethink our approach.
Moondra saying "just doing the basics for longer" - that sums up why Ireland beat us. They were disciplined, we were flashy. Chasing 155 and losing by 1 run... painful. But well played to him, taking 3 key wickets including Samson was top class. 👏
This feels like a deja vu from 2007 T20 World Cup. Indian team needs to respect every opponent. Moondra's attitude is commendable - humble, focused, and hardworking. Hope our youngsters learn from this. Not the end of the world, but a loud wake-up call for sure.
Everyone is blaming our team, but honestly, this is what makes cricket beautiful. Ireland deserved this moment. Jai Moondra's words "just keep calm and composed" - such maturity for a young player. Sad as an Indian fan, but happy for the Irish team's growth. 🌈🏏
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