England vs Ireland, 2020, 2nd ODI: Match Prediction – Weather Report, Pitch Conditions, Playing XIs and Live Streaming Details

Liam Livingstone has replaced Joe Denly in the Brits squad.

Published - 31 Jul 2020, 19:01 IST | Updated - 31 Jul 2020, 19:01 IST

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England made a thunderous start to their three-match ODI series against Ireland, winning the opening match at the Rose Bowl in Southampton by six wickets. In the very first hour of the match, David Willey picked up four wickets and left the hosts at 28 for five. Curtis Campher and Andy McBrine got them back in the game, but Ireland couldn’t get the ideal score on a flat batting deck.

While defending a modest 173, the visitors chipped in with four wickets to start off. However, Eoin Morgan and Sam Billings’ calm heads got the Brits over the finishing line. The second ODI is set to be played on Saturday, August 1 at the very venue and Ireland will have to pull off something incredible to make a comeback. As for the Three Lions, they would wish to wrap up the series next time itself.

Pitch and Conditions

The pitch in the first game didn’t have any demons whatsoever. The deck isn’t expected to change much and striking with the new ball will be important. Though teams batting first and second have won almost equal number of games, teams would prefer chasing on the strip. There are five to seven per cent chances of rain, with the temperature around 17 and 23 degrees Celsius.

Playing Combinations

England

Joe Denly has been ruled out of the series due to back spasms. He has been replaced by Liam Livingstone. After the last game, Morgan said that the hosts won’t be making any changes to their batting order. But he also stated that the team may undergo changes in the bowling department.

In that case, Reece Topley may get chance in place of Saqib Mahmood or Tom Curran. Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali were economical and their role will be crucial. In batting, Roy, Bairstow, Vince and Banton would want to make amends. Billings will also be looking to carry on with his good form.

Predicted XI

Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow (wk), James Vince, Tom Banton, Sam Billings, Eoin Morgan (C), Moeen Ali, David Willey, Adil Rashid, Tom Curran, Saqib Mahmood/Reece Topley

Ireland

For Ireland, Boyd Rankin may come in for Barry McCarthy. The latter injured his ankle in his very first over and had to walk off midway. Rankin’s inclusion will also add some valuable experience to the Irish bowling attack. Craig Young was impressive after he got a couple of crucial English wickets.

The visitors preferred debutant Harry Tector ahead of William Porterfield, who missed an ODI after six years. But the move backfired. It remains to be seen whether or not Ireland decide to include Porterfield for the one-off game. Paul Stirling and O’Brien will have to take a lot of responsibility.

Predicted XI

Paul Stirling, Gareth Delany, Andy Balbirnie (C), Harry Tector/William Porterfield, Kevin O’Brien, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, Simi Singh, Boyd Rankin, Andy McBrine, Craig Young