New Delhi: Jai Moondra admitted he still struggles to believe what just happened after inspiring Ireland to one of the most exciting moments in the country’s cricket history, as emotional celebrations began following a stunning 2-0 T20I series sweep of reigning champions India.Rajasthan’s Tonk, who made his Ireland international debut in the series, was adjudged Player of the Match and Player of the Series after also clearing India’s star-studded batting line-up. Moondra claimed 3 for 32, removing Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and the captain Shreyas Iyerwhen Ireland defended 154 to seal a stunning victory at Stormont.Videos released after the match captured some heartwarming images, with the Irish players celebrating their first win in any series and ending their 16-match winning streak in T20Is.
‘I’m still trying to drown in the feeling’
Although he became the unlikely champion of the series, Moondra said the magnitude of his achievements did not register.“I’m still trying to sink in the feeling. I know it’s hard to describe in one word. It’s an amazing feeling to play against the best, to test yourself,” he said.The left-arm pacer revealed that his whole approach was to stick to basics.“So I’m just doing what’s needed for a long time, that was the plan. Credit to the team members and the management. Keep it simple. There will be tough times, but keep calm and stay focused and do what you want,” he said.Moondra reflected on the obstacles he had to overcome before reaching this level of his career.“Everybody has ups and downs, so you just have to deal with it and move on. Nothing more.”WATCH: Irish players celebrate historic win
‘He made me feel like one of them’
The 29-year-old has credited the Irish clothing store for helping him to play international cricket.“They made me feel like I was one of them, nothing different from that. It was amazing, a good place, good people. So I’m just doing the job they gave me,” he said.When asked about bowling to seasoned opener Sanju Samson, Moondra said he has not deviated from his plan despite the challenges.“Just keep it simple, do what you’ve been doing. It’s going to be tough, little margin for error. So keep what you’ve been doing and stick to the plan,” he added.His brilliant execution paid dividends as he dismissed Samson and Abhishek Sharma for a first-ball duck before sending Iyer to India’s 35 for 4.Even after picking up the Player of the Series award after only two international appearances, Moondra admitted that the legend was difficult to understand.“Oh, I’m still trying to fix it,” Moondra said.For Ireland, the celebrations marked more than just another two-way victory. After backing up their opening win with some inspired play, Lorcan Tucker’s side proved their success was not for nothing, producing the biggest T20I win in the country’s history against the best team in the world.
