United States vs Ireland – 1st T20 International Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is United States vs Ireland taking place? Wednesday, December 22nd, 2021 – 19:00 (UK)
Where is United States vs Ireland taking place? Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground, Lauderhill, Florida
What is the expected weather for United States vs Ireland? 23c with sunshine and a gentle breeze.
What channel is United States vs Ireland on? Details regarding television coverage for this match has yet to be released.
Where can I stream United States vs Ireland? Details regarding streaming for this match has yet to be released
LAST MEETING
Ireland beat United States by 46 runs.
THE TEAM NEWS
UNITED STATES
- For the first time in their history, United States are set to host a Test match playing nation on their own soil as Ireland travel to Florida for this the first of two T20i matches, followed by a three-match One-Day International series.
- The United States squad has been hit by disruption ahead of this match due to multiple players recording positive Covid-19 tests during pre-series testing, leading to warm-up matches being cancelled and those players being forced to isolate, meaning they will likely miss this first T20i.
IRELAND
- The last time Ireland were in T20i action, they suffered huge disappointment at the T20 World Cup in the UAE back in October, failing to make it to the Super 12 stage after losing to both Sri Lanka and Namibia in Group A.
- A strong squad has been named by Ireland, however like United States, the tourists have been blighted by Covid-19 issues with players such as Gareth Delany and Harry Tector testing positive and being forced to isolate, which has led to bowler Josh Little being summoned from his current stint in the Lanka Premier League to join up with the Irish squad.
THE PREDICTION
Neither side are expected to be at their best here due to Covid-19 enforced absences, but that won’t dampen what is a historic occasion for United States cricket. In regards to the contest itself, the hosts head into this first match of what is a two-game series in excellent form having won each of their last six T20i fixtures. However, none of their opponents match up to the quality of what they will face from this Ireland side. Both teams having their preparation severely disrupted ahead of this first T20i means that individual ability becomes even more crucial when taking into account the lack of opportunity to implement and test out strategies as a team in warm-up matches. Ultimately, Ireland’s strength-in-depth within their squad should see them able to come through and pick up victory here in Florida.
