India Looks to Level Series Against Ireland in Second T20I
India will be facing off against Ireland in the second and final T20I on Sunday, June 28th, at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast. After suffering a historic 34-run defeat in the series opener, India will be aiming to level the series to avoid a series defeat.
Ireland’s Historic Victory
In the first T20I, Ireland secured their first-ever win over India in any format. Captain Lorcan Tucker led from the front with a solid batting performance, and the bowlers restricted India effectively. Now, the hosts will be looking to make it a memorable series victory on home soil.
Match Details
The second T20I between Ireland and India is part of India’s tour of Ireland, scheduled for Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM IST. The match will be held at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast and can be streamed live on the Sony LIV app and website as well as the Sony Sports Network.
Pitch & Weather Report
The pitch at the Civil Service Cricket Club generally provides a balanced contest between bat and ball. While fast bowlers may find some initial movement, batting becomes easier as the match progresses. The average first-innings score at the venue is 157, and chasing teams have had success here.
Weather conditions in Belfast are expected to be overcast with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 16°C. The humidity will be around 75%, with light winds aiding the seamers. While there is a slight chance of light drizzle, a full 20-over match is anticipated.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, India has dominated Ireland in T20Is, winning eight out of the nine matches between the two teams. However, Ireland broke that streak with their victory in the first T20I. It was their first win over India in international cricket and their only triumph against the Men in Blue in this format.
Key Players to Watch
Abhishek Sharma and Lorcan Tucker will be key players to watch in the upcoming match. Abhishek impressed with the bat in the first T20I, while Tucker has been in outstanding form for Ireland. Harshit Rana and Matt Hollard will also play crucial roles with the ball for their respective teams.
Match Prediction
Despite their defeat in the first T20I, India enters the second match as favorites. With a stronger batting lineup, India will be determined to level the series. However, Ireland will be buoyed by their historic win and home advantage. If India’s batters can deliver a better performance, they should have enough quality to secure a victory and level the series 1-1.
Team Strategies
India will likely look to make some changes in their playing XI for the second T20I after the disappointing loss in the series opener. Captain Shreyas Iyer may shuffle the batting order to provide a more solid foundation, with experienced players like Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal expected to step up and deliver. The bowling attack led by Harshal Patel will aim to pick up early wickets and put pressure on the Irish batsmen.
On the other hand, Ireland will be riding high on confidence after their historic win and will look to capitalize on their momentum. Captain Lorcan Tucker will aim to replicate his stellar performance in the first match, while the bowlers will focus on maintaining tight lines and lengths to contain the potent Indian batting lineup. The team will be looking to create more opportunities in the field and capitalize on any mistakes made by the Indian side.
Player Form and Conditions
Abhishek Sharma’s performance in the first T20I showcased his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate at the right moments. His composure under pressure will be crucial for India in the upcoming match. On the other hand, Lorcan Tucker’s aggressive approach with the bat has been a key factor in Ireland’s recent success, and he will be aiming to continue his good form.
With overcast conditions and some assistance for the seamers expected at the Civil Service Cricket Club, fast bowlers from both teams will play a significant role. Harshit Rana’s ability to swing the ball early on could trouble the Irish top order, while Matt Hollard’s variations and control will be vital for Ireland in restricting the Indian batsmen.
Series Implications
The outcome of the second T20I will not only determine the result of the series but also have broader implications for both teams. A series win for Ireland would be a historic achievement and a major milestone in their cricketing journey. For India, a victory in the second match would help them regain their confidence and momentum before heading into more challenging series against stronger opponents.
Overall, the second T20I promises to be a thrilling encounter between two competitive teams. With both sides eager to make a statement, cricket fans can expect an intense battle as India looks to level the series against Ireland in an exciting clash at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast.


