The first two ODIs of the England – Ireland series have pretty much been one-sided. Ireland have no answer to England’s attack whether its batting or bowling. England batsmen have had no mercy on the Irish bowlers as they’ve comprehensively defeated their neighbouring nation in this series.
In the 2nd ODI, we saw some restrain from Ireland’s Curtis Campher who scored a gritty 68 off 87 deliveries. But his knock went in vain as England beat Ireland by 4 wickets chasing a target of 213 runs in under 33 overs. The onslaught was started by Johnny Bairstow who literally tore apart the Ireland bowlers by scoring a quickfire 82 off 41 balls which helped England chase down the target in no time.
With the series comfortably in the hands of England, they will be looking to test out their bench strength in an attempt to try out new players in their lineup. On the other hand, we’ll expect Ireland to put up their best XI in the final ODI as they’d want to head back home with a win in their bag.
Pitch Report
Just like the first two ODIs, the third ODI will also take place at Southampton during to COVID-19 outbreak. The pitch is not likely to change much and will offer movement to the seamers early on in the innings.
Like always, captains are most likely to bowl first after winning the toss as pacers are likely to get early breakthroughs with the new ball early on in the innings.
Fantasy Tips
England openers Jonny Bairstow and Jason Roy will be desperate to end the series on a high piling on more runs. Any one of the two can easily take up the captain’s role. All eyes will be on Moeen Ali as well as he will aim to put his best feet forward and cement his place in the squad.
On the other hand, Ireland will have to contain the English batsmen to give them any chance of pulling one back. Broad Ranking will be their main man, who will hope to swing the new ball and cause trouble for the opponent.
England vs Ireland, 2020, 2nd ODI: Predicted XI
England: Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow(w), James Vince, Eoin Morgan(c), Tom Banton, Sam Billings, Moeen Ali, David Willey, Liam Dawson, Tom Curran, Reece Topley
Ireland: Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie(c), Gareth Delany, Harry Tector, Kevin O Brien, Lorcan Tucker(w), Curtis Campher, Simi Singh, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young.
Captain Selection: James Vince, Johnny Bairstow, Curtis Campher
Vice-Captain Selection: Jason Roy, Paul Stirling, Eoin Morgan
Match Prediction
In most cases, we’re most likely to see England defeating Ireland yet again in the 3rd ODI. Though Ireland would want to put up a great show in the final ODI, England just seems too strong for the visitors.
Dream 11 Team
