India and Ireland are gearing up to face off in a three-match T20I series beginning on Friday, August 18, 2023. The matches are scheduled at two Dublin venues: The Village, Malahide, and the Malahide Cricket Club Ground. This series marks the first bilateral showdown between the two teams since 2022 and offers an excellent preparation ground for both ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2023. Below are some pivotal facets of the series:
Bumrah’s Captaincy Debut and Return from Injury
Jasprit Bumrah recognized as one of the premier fast bowlers globally, is set to make his captaincy debut for India in this series. Absent from the field since January 2023 due to a back injury, Bumrah now shoulders the dual responsibility of leading a relatively green squad and demonstrating his recuperated form and fitness.
Ireland Eyes an Upset to Boost Morale
With four victories from their last five T20Is, all against associate nations, and a berth in the T20 World Cup 2023, Ireland seeks to upset the apple cart against India. Their ambition is bolstered by the prowess of players like Paul Stirling, Andy Balbirnie, and Josh Little.
Spotlight on India’s Emerging Stars
India, having rested several key players for this series, offers its budding talents an international stage. The team incorporates six uncapped cricketers who have shone in domestic and age-group championships. Among others, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Nitish Rana, Rahul Chahar, Navdeep Saini, and Deepak Chahar will be eager to consolidate their positions.
Pitch and Weather Insight
Batsmen can anticipate a run-fest on the expected flat tracks of both venues. While the pacers might extract some early assistance from the fresh ball, spinners might find turn elusive. Overcast and chilly conditions are forecasted throughout the series, with rain potential on the opening day.
Schedule and Broadcasting Info
All three T20Is commence at 2:00 PM local time (6:30 PM IST). The opener is slated for Friday, August 18, 2023, at The Village, Malahide, with the subsequent fixtures on Sunday, August 20, and Wednesday, August 23, both at the Malahide Cricket Club Ground. Indian viewers can tune into Sony Six, and Sony Six HD, or stream the matches on the JioCinema app and website. In Ireland, RTE2 and the RTE Player will provide the telecast.
The Squads
India: Jasprit Bumrah (c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Nitish Rana, Sanju Samson (wk), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Krunal Pandya, Rahul Chahar, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Ishan Porel, Arshdeep Singh, Harsh Tyagi, Ishan Kishan (wk).
Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Andy Balbirnie, Ross Adair, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Josh Little, Ben White, Gareth Delany, Fionn Hand, Kevin O’Brien.
Conclusion
The India vs. Ireland T20I series promises thrilling cricket. Both contenders aim to hone their skills and build momentum for the upcoming T20 World Cup. While India enters as the anticipated favorite, Ireland isn't one to back down easily. Brace for a riveting blend of experience and youth, pace and spin, and might and finesse. Stay tuned for the action!
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