After a one-sided affair in the 1st ODI, England are set to face Ireland on August 1 at Southampton. England in the first ODI, had convincingly defeated Ireland by 6 wickets with 22 overs left. There was a little bit of artificial excitement created by the Irish men when they took early wickets of England-top order but being an inexperienced team couldn’t continue with further breakthroughs.
IRELAND:
Despite losing the 1st ODI, some of the young players like Curtis Campher and Andy McBrine have shown positive signs. It is expected that senior guys like Kevin O’Brien, A Balbirnie and Paul Stirling step up and value their wicket thereby allowing the young middle order to play their natural game.
The Ireland team might make one change by bringing in Boy Rankin or Josh Little in place of Barry McCarthy. They will give more chances to youngsters who’ve looked promising in the first match.
Probable Playing XI: Paul Stirling, Gareth Delany, Andrew Balbirnie (C), Harry Tector, Kevin O’Brien, Lorcan Tucker (WK), Curtis Campher, Simi Singh, Andy McBrine, Craig Young, Boy Rankin/Josh Little
ENGLAND:
England will be satisfied with their performance and come out even stronger with confidence after winning the first ODI. David Willey has looked hungry for wickets especially after missing the ICC World Cup 2019 due to injury.
The top-order batsmen (Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow) have looked rusty in the first ODI. They need to spend some time in the crease particularly after coming from a long break in international cricket. Sam Billing has shown a positive sign with his terrific batting in the previous game.
After winning the first ODI, England won’t disturb the playing XI as they look a settled unit.
Also See: England vs Ireland 2020 Schedule
Probable Playing XI:Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow (WK), James Vince, Tom Banton, Sam Billings, E Morgan (C), Moeen Ali, Tom Curran, Adil Rashid, David Willey, Saqib Mahmood
Pitch and Weather Conditions:
The pitch will be the same as in the 1st ODI. It will offer bounce for the pace bowlers and quick runs could be made if wickets are left in hand. If there is no rain the outfield will be very fast, therefore the ball will move off bat like a tracer bullet.
The weather conditions at Ageas Bowl will be partly cloudy with a 20% chance of precipitation, hopefully will not affect the result of the match.
Also See: ENG vs IRE Live Score
The 2nd ODI will be the series decider for one team (Ireland) and series win for the other (England). England no doubt are favorites to win this match but Ireland will be hopeful to upset England and give a better fight than the previous match.