Indian captain Shreyas Iyer admitted his side let the game slip away despite the ideal start with the ball as Ireland stunned the reigning T20 world champions by 34 runs in the opening T20I to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.Leading India for the first time as full-time T20I captain, Iyer felt that the bowlers executed their plans well in the early stages but were unable to maintain the same discipline during the half and death, allowing Ireland to recover from a precarious position. “I think initially, the bowlers were bowling well. They had lateral movement, and they also got a couple of wickets. So we had a tremendous start, but in between, we lost the execution. We made it hit directly on the ground, where we know that the dimensions are quite small. But then, yes, the bowlers, when we had to close the overs, they were brilliant as well. So I thought 140 would have been an amazing score considering the start we were chasing. But in any case, it’s a great experience here. We have to play in these conditions, we have a good idea of ​​the wicket, and yes, a good start as captain.”After reducing Ireland to 36/3 in the Powerplay, India allowed Lorcan Tucker, Gareth Delany and George Dockrell to turn the innings as the hosts eventually posted 182/9. Delany and Dockrell’s Assault Prasidh Krishna in the death overs, including a 27-run over, proved decisive.Asked if India’s long break had contributed to the defeat, Iyer acknowledged there was rust but insisted the team will move on quickly and focus on the series decider.“Yes, of course. We have to forget what happened. Definitely a lot to learn from this game and see that we have to come out in the next game all guns blazing.”The India skipper reserved special praise for Harshit Rana, who impressed with figures of 3/24 on his return from injury, while also highlighting the value of Shivam Dube’s contribution with the ball.“Yes, certainly. They received help in front of the beginning, and Shivam, he slipped in the crucial past. So I always support him, and I play with him even in the domestic circuit. I know their strengths and weaknesses. And Harshit Rana, he played phenomenally. To come off an injury to perform at this level and show this kind of talent, it’s simply brilliant.”India’s chase never gathered momentum though Abhishek SharmaThe explosive 20-ball fifty saw the visitors eventually bowled out for 148 as Ireland recorded their first win over India in any format.Reflecting on the defeat, Iyer urged his teammates not to be complacent and stressed the importance of capitalizing whenever an opponent is under pressure.“I think you can’t take anything for granted. You can’t just turn around and win games. You have to work hard and see that you are in that moment. As I said before, you have to stay in the present and see that if you have the opportunity to squeeze the opponent, we have to do it.Despite the disappointing result in his first match as India’s permanent T20I captain, Iyer made it clear that the team is already focused on recognition.“Yes, I look forward to it.”