KATHMANDU, Jan 25: Ireland will look to secure an unassailable lead in the three-match series when they take on Italy in the second T20I at the Sevens Stadium in Dubai on Saturday.
Ireland lead the series 1–0 after edging past Italy by three wickets in the opening match, where they chased down a modest target with three balls to spare. The hosts will be aiming for a more complete performance after a mixed showing in the series opener.
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Harry Tector and Lorcan Tucker were among the key contributors with the bat in the first T20I, while Matthew Humphreys impressed with the ball. Ireland’s bowling unit managed to restrict Italy to a low total, though lapses in the chase exposed areas for improvement.
Italy, meanwhile, will be seeking a stronger batting display to level the series. Grant Stewart and Thomas Draca provided encouraging spells with the ball in the opening match, but the batting lineup struggled to build partnerships.
The series forms part of both teams’ preparations ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with Italy using the fixtures to gain experience at the international level and Ireland continuing their build-up against emerging opposition.
The second T20I will be crucial for Italy’s hopes of staying alive in the series, while a win for Ireland would wrap up the contest with a match to spare.
