Ireland vs England – 1st T20I Match Preview | 17th September 2025, 13:30 GMT

Match Details

• Teams: Ireland vs England
• Venue: Malahide Cricket Ground, Dublin
• Format: T20I
• Series: England Tour of Ireland 2025
• Date: 17th September 2025
• Time: 13:30 GMT

Match Preview

The 1st T20I of the England Tour of Ireland 2025 kicks off on 17th September at Malahide Cricket Ground, setting the stage for a three-match series. Ireland will look to make a strong statement on home soil, while England, the current third-ranked T20I team, will be eager to assert dominance and kickstart their campaign on a high.

Ireland's Form and Strengths

Ireland, ranked 11th in the T20I points table, have struggled in recent series, losing to both Zimbabwe and the West Indies. However, they remain a competitive side on home turf and have the potential to cause an upset if they play to their full potential. The likes of Curtis Campher, a highly talented all-rounder, and Barry McCarthy, who can provide early inroads with the new ball, will be crucial for the hosts.

England's Form and Strengths

England, currently ranked third in the T20I standings, will enter the match as strong favorites. They have shown resilience in tight contests, as seen in their recent tie against South Africa. With a well-balanced squad and experience in high-pressure situations, the visitors are expected to dominate the series. Key players to watch include Jos Buttler, a seasoned campaigner at the top of the order, and Adil Rashid, whose left-arm spin can be a potent weapon in the middle and death overs.

Squads

Ireland:
Paul Stirling (captain), Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Graham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Barry McCarthy, Jordan Neil, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young

England:
Jacob Bethell (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Sonny Baker, Tom Banton, Jos Buttler, Liam Dawson, Tom Hartley, Will Jacks, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Luke Wood, Jordan Cox, Sam Curran

Key Match Predictions

• Toss Winner: Ireland
• Match Winner: England
• Top Batters: Jos Buttler (England), Ross Adair (Ireland)
• Top Bowlers: Adil Rashid (England), Barry McCarthy (Ireland)
• Most Sixes: Jacob Bethell (England), Curtis Campher (Ireland)
• Player of the Match: Jacob Bethell (England)
• Team Scores (Batting First): England 190+, Ireland 175+
• Match Handicap: England

Final Verdict

While Ireland have the advantage of playing at home and can certainly challenge the stronger side, England’s depth in batting and bowling, along with their experience in high-stakes T20I matches, gives them the edge. The match promises to be an exciting start to the series, with both teams eager to make their mark.

Prediction: England to win by 5-10 runs.
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