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Team India is on the verge of an exciting journey as they gear up for a tour of Ireland in August 2023. This much-anticipated tour will comprise a series of three Twenty20 International (T20I) matches, and it is set to kick off on August 18 at the Malahide Cricket Club in Dublin. The following matches will also take place at the same venue, culminating on August 23.
In terms of past performances, the Indian team has enjoyed success against Ireland in the T20 format. They have emerged victorious in all five T20 matches played against Ireland. However, this time around, the Irish side, led by Paul Stirling, is determined to rewrite the script and reverse their fortunes against the visiting team.
Stirling took over the captaincy from Andrew Balbirnie, who stepped down following Ireland’s lackluster performance in the ODI World Cup 2023 Qualifiers. Despite those challenges, Ireland managed to secure their qualification for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 by finishing among the top two teams in the Europe Qualifiers last month. As such, this series against India holds immense importance for the European side as they fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the West Indies and the USA.
The Men in Blue arrived in Ireland after a closely contested T20 series against the West Indies, which ended in a 3-2 defeat for the visitors. This provides the Irish side an opening to capitalize on any lingering confidence issues within the young Indian squad, particularly in the absence of some senior players. The Irish team will undoubtedly be motivated to put up a spirited fight and seize the chance to make a statement against a talented Indian side.
Also READ: IRE vs IND 2023: India’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Ireland
Here is Ireland’s best playing XI for the India T20Is:
Stirling, the dynamic opener and captain, sets the tone for Ireland with his aggressive batting style at the top order. Andrew Balbirnie, a technically solid batter, offers stability alongside Stirling. The former Irish skipper’s ability to anchor the innings makes him a crucial asset. Lorcan Tucker, a wicketkeeper-batter at number 3, adds middle-order stability and acceleration skills to the team.
Harry Tector, a young middle-order batter, is adept at building partnerships and fulfilling the role of a finisher. Curtis Campher, an all-rounder, contributes with both bat and ball, bringing balance to the team. Gareth Delany, a versatile explosive all-rounder at number 6, provides quick starts and leg-spin bowling options.
George Dockrell, a seasoned left-arm spinner, controls the middle overs and takes pivotal wickets. Mark Adair, an all-rounder at 8, adds depth to the lower order and contributes with medium-fast bowling. Craig Young, a reliable fast bowler, uses his pace and bounce effectively. Josh Little, a left-arm fast bowler, generates pace and swing for early breakthroughs. Benjamin White, a promising spinner, offers spin support alongside Dockrell, utilizing variations to trouble batter.
Ireland’s best XI for the T20I series against India:
Paul Stirling (c), Andrew Balbirnie, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Craig Young. Josh Little, Ben White.
Ireland’s T20I squad for the India series:
Paul Stirling (c), Andrew Balbirnie, Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Fionn Hand, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Theo van Woerkom, Ben White, Craig Young.
