Ireland’s national cricket team returned to winning ways as they defeated the United Arab Emirates by 57 runs in the first match of their three-game Twenty20 international series at the Dubai International Stadium. This victory marks a positive start for Ireland as they fine-tune their preparations ahead of the T20 World Cup, which begins for them against Sri Lanka in Colombo on 8 February.
The Irish side had recently endured a minor setback after losing the final fixture of their series against Italy, a contest they ultimately won 2-1. However, the win against the UAE demonstrated Ireland’s ability to bounce back, showcasing a combination of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling.
After winning the toss, Ireland opted to bat first. Their innings began in attacking fashion, but they immediately lost captain Paul Stirling for eight runs in the opening over, despite him hitting two powerful boundaries. Stirling’s early departure could have set a shaky tone, but Ross Adair, opening alongside him, steadied the innings. Adair scored a solid 39 before being dismissed by Muhammad Arfan.
Meanwhile, Harry Tector, who followed Stirling in the batting order, was dismissed cheaply for four. The innings, however, was stabilized by an effective partnership between Adair and Lorcan Tucker, who contributed 38 runs, including two impressive sixes, before falling to Haider Ali. This partnership allowed Ireland to maintain momentum despite the early loss of wickets.
Middle-order contributions proved crucial for Ireland as the team approached the final overs. Ben Calitz, with 26 not out, and Curtis Campher, who scored 25, combined to push the total toward a competitive score. While Gareth Delany contributed a modest eight runs, George Dockrell anchored the tail with an unbeaten 22, helping Ireland reach a total of 178 for six after 20 overs. The innings displayed both resilience and adaptability, with Ireland building a platform for their bowlers to defend.
The UAE began their chase on a positive note. Captain Muhammad Waseem and Aryansh Sharma established a solid opening partnership, providing hope for the hosts. However, the breakthrough came in the form of Gareth Delany, who dismissed wicketkeeper Sharma for 23, shifting the balance in Ireland’s favor. Following this, Sohaib Khan also fell, and when Waseem was dismissed for a well-played 40, the UAE’s innings began to unravel.
Ireland’s bowlers were clinical in finishing off the innings. Gareth Delany and Matthew Humphreys each claimed three wickets, supported by Barry McCarthy, who took two. The UAE were eventually bowled out for 121 in the penultimate over, handing Ireland a convincing 57-run victory. This dominant performance highlighted Ireland’s ability to capitalize on key moments, blending effective bowling and sharp fielding with strong batting contributions.
Looking ahead, the second and final T20 match of the series is scheduled to take place at the same venue on Saturday, with a 14:00 GMT start. Ireland will be aiming to complete a clean sweep and continue their momentum leading into the T20 World Cup.
Richard Holdsworth to Step Down
In other news, Richard Holdsworth has announced that he will be stepping down from his role as Director of Cricket at Cricket Ireland. Holdsworth, who first joined Cricket Ireland in 2011, spent 13 years as High Performance Director before assuming the director role two years ago. His tenure has been marked by significant milestones in Irish cricket, with his contributions spanning player development, structural reforms, and the professionalization of the sport across both men’s and women’s programs.
Holdsworth played a pivotal role in the transformation of Ireland’s cricketing status. He oversaw the transition from associate member to full member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2017, a year in which the Irish men’s team achieved Test status. His efforts also extended to reviving domestic competitions, including the men’s inter-provincial series and the women’s Super Series, ensuring a robust pathway for emerging talent.
Under his leadership, Cricket Ireland introduced central player contracts for both men and women, professionalizing the sport and providing financial stability and security for players. This strategic move allowed Ireland to retain and develop talent, ensuring a competitive presence on the international stage.
Holdsworth reflected on his tenure with pride, stating, “I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved together working with a team of outstanding staff. From our collective efforts to professionalize structures and support players at the highest level, to seeing Ireland compete with distinction on the global stage — it has been a privilege to be part of this journey.”
His announcement also coincides with a broader leadership transition within Cricket Ireland, as the organization prepares to welcome Sarah Keane as its new Chief Executive Officer. Holdsworth expressed confidence in the incoming leadership, emphasizing the continued growth and strategic development of Irish cricket. “Cricket Ireland will soon welcome a new chief executive officer, further marking a transition to the next phase of the organisation’s strategic growth and ambition, and I wish Sarah and the team continued growth and success,” he said.
Holdsworth’s departure marks the end of an era for Cricket Ireland, leaving behind a legacy of structural improvements, professional pathways, and strengthened international competitiveness. His contributions have ensured that Irish cricket remains on an upward trajectory, with the men’s and women’s teams equipped to compete at the highest levels in the coming years.
Looking Ahead
For the Irish men’s team, the upcoming T20 matches against the UAE offer valuable preparation ahead of the T20 World Cup. Building momentum and refining strategies in Dubai will be crucial for Ireland as they seek to compete effectively against top-tier international sides.
Meanwhile, the structural foundations laid by Holdsworth and his team will continue to benefit Irish cricket. The combination of strong domestic competitions, central contracts, and professional coaching ensures a sustainable pathway for player development, allowing Ireland to maintain a competitive edge on the world stage.
Fans can look forward to seeing the fruits of these developments in both the immediate T20 series and the forthcoming World Cup campaigns, as Ireland aims to make an impact against the strongest cricketing nations.
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