India-born left-arm pacer Jai Moondra made a dream start to his international career by dismissing Sanju Samson with the very first ball of his T20I debut for Ireland during the opening match of the series against India in Belfast on Friday.
The debutant struck with his first delivery in international cricket, removing one of India’s most experienced T20 batters and handing Ireland an ideal start to the contest.
Who is Jai Moondra?
Jai Moondra’s journey to international cricket began in Rajasthan before taking him to Ireland, where he has now earned a place in the national team.
The left-arm seamer moved to Ireland in 2021 on a student visa to pursue an MTech degree while continuing to play club cricket. His impressive performances in Ireland’s domestic circuit helped him establish himself as a promising fast bowler.
Moondra obtained Irish citizenship in 2025, paving the way for his selection to the national side. His consistent displays earned him a maiden international call-up for the T20I series against India.
He received his first Ireland cap at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast, becoming one of the latest India-born cricketers to represent another country in international cricket.
Historic debut against India
Moondra’s international debut could hardly have begun in a better fashion. With his very first ball in T20I cricket, he dismissed Sanju Samson, making an immediate impact for Ireland.
The wicket also placed him in the record books, as Moondra became only the second Irish cricketer to claim a wicket with the first ball of his T20I career for Ireland.
His memorable debut added another milestone to the growing list of India-born players making their mark in international cricket while representing other nations.