Ireland will be taking on Zimbabwe in the first T20I of the five-match series at Clontarf Cricket Ground in Dublin, on Thursday (27 August). For Ireland, this would be a dress rehearsal for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2020. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will be heading into the qualifiers for ICC T20 World Cup 2021.
Team News
Ireland have only played three T20Is in more than a year. They have few pressing questions and by the end of this series, they will have an answer for, at least a few of them. This is going to be make-or-break series for Kevin O'Brien, whose lean patch has continued for quite some time. The hosts would also want to test some new names like Neil Rock and Curtis Campher.
Craig Irvine is back in the squad after missing the last series due to personal reasons. He will take over the captaincy duty from Sikandar Raza. Sean Williams has requested the board to not consider him for T20Is.
Fantasy Tips
- Among bowlers, Blessing Muzarabani and Mark Adair are must-haves for your team.
- Paul Stirling played an instrumental role in Southern Brave's run to the maiden Hundred championship.
- Simi Singh is a great utility player to have. He takes wickets regularly, and is an adept batter.
Probable XIs
Ireland: Paul Stirling, Kevin O'Brien, Andrew Balbirnie (c), George Dockrell, Harry Tector, Simi Singh, Lorcan Tucker (w), Shane Getkate, Mark Adair, Joshua Little, Barry McCarthy
Zimbabwe: Brendan Taylor, Wesley Madhevere, Regis Chkabva (w), Dion Myers, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Craig Ervine (c), Ryan Burl, Luke Jongwe, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngavara
Fantasy Team:
Wesley Madhevere (vc), Andy Balbirnie, Craig Ervine, Paul Stirling, Sikander Raza, Shane Getkate, Mark Adair (c), Sean Williams, Boyd Rankin, Gareth Delany and Tendai Chatara.