Andy Balbirnie. Photo: ESPN

DHAKA, Nov 23, 2025 (BSS) - Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie admitted that Bangladesh were the superior side across all five days as they wrapped up a 217-run win in the second Test to complete a 2-0 series sweep in Mirpur.

Despite the defeat, Ireland showed grit and composure in extending the match to the final day while chasing an improbable 509 for victory. Their resistance was led by Curtis Campher and Gavin, whose disciplined batting drew praise from their skipper.

"At the start of the day, the main word we talked about was fight. The application from Curtis Campher and Gavin was amazing, especially from Curtis," Balbirnie said. "A lot of resilience, but at the same time we were outplayed by Bangladesh."

Balbirnie conceded that the surface at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium played differently from what Ireland had anticipated. Traditionally known for early turn and spin-friendly conditions, the wicket this time offered a fair contest.

"The surface played a lot different than what we expected. We were kind of expecting it to turn early on. It did turn, but it didn't turn a lot, it was a pretty good wicket," he said.

The Ireland captain pointed to Bangladesh's top-order dominance as the defining factor of the series.

"Top-order was the difference. Their top-order got big runs in both games. Our guys got starts and looked like they could score big," Balbirnie said, describing the tour as a valuable learning curve.
 
"We will go back, work hard and learn. It's been really good. The T20 guys have some cricket to look forward to. It's great to be in a cricket-loving country, every time we play, we get a learning opportunity and we enjoy it a lot."