Salt powers England past Ireland in T20 opener
England’s first T20 clash against Ireland in Malahide turned into a story dominated by Phil Salt. The England opener was in blistering form once again, smashing 89 runs off just 46 balls, and although he fell short of back-to-back centuries, his innings set the tone for a comfortable four-wicket victory.
Ireland had posted what looked like a strong total of 196 for three in their 20 overs. Their innings was anchored by Harry Tector, who played a fine unbeaten knock of 61, and Lorcan Tucker, who added 55 of his own. The openers Paul Stirling and Ross Adair got the hosts off to a lively start, clearing the ropes with some big strokes before both were dismissed in quick succession. Still, Ireland’s total was one they would have felt gave them a real chance, especially given that they had not played international cricket since June.
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England, however, were not in the mood to let the game slip. Stepping in as stand-in captain for Harry Brook, 21-year-old Jacob Bethell won the toss and put Ireland in to bat, later contributing 24 runs himself. But the real fireworks began at the top of England’s reply. Salt and Jos Buttler launched a furious assault in the powerplay, piling on 84 runs in the first six overs. Buttler struck 28 off just 10 balls before falling, but by then Ireland were already under immense pressure.
Salt carried on, hammering boundaries to all parts of the ground. He reached his half-century in only 20 deliveries, continuing his run of form after scoring a spectacular 141 against South Africa the previous week. His dismissal in the 15th over, caught by Adair, came too late for Ireland. By then, the chase had been broken open, and England were always in control. Sam Curran and Bethell chipped in along the way, while Jamie Overton finished things off with the winning runs. England reached 197 for six with more than two overs to spare.
For Ireland, it was a case of their batting effort being undone by a lack of penetration in the bowling attack. Missing key figures like Josh Little and Mark Adair, they were forced to lean on less experienced options, and the English top order took full advantage. Despite a few wickets falling late on, England’s depth and Salt’s dominance ensured there was little real doubt about the outcome.
The victory was notable for being England’s first ever T20 win over Ireland, giving them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. For Bethell, it was a memorable debut as captain, becoming the youngest player to lead England in international cricket. And for Salt, it was yet another reminder of the destructive force he has become at the top of England’s order.
The two teams will meet again in Malahide on Friday and Sunday, with Ireland looking for a response and England hoping to seal the series early.
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