England vs Ireland, 3rd ODI, Preview - Desperate Ireland look to open their account as England eye clean sweep

Overview

In the pre-ODI Super League era, the 3^rd ODI between England and Ireland would have been nothing but a dead rubber. But the vision and mission of ICC’s recently launched Men’s ODI Super League seem towards fulfillment as 10 precious league points will be up for grabs in the last encounter of the ongoing 3-match series where England has gained an unassailable lead of 2-0.

Even though England started as clear favourites, they have been denied easy victories by the visitors. Ireland, who have disproved the tag of being absolute pushovers, have created moments in the series and have managed to throw the hosts under the pump, though their failure to capitalize has led them to suffer. From England’s view, despite two victories on the trot, they have failed to tick a few boxes.

The second victory for the Brits was not as comprehensive and their relatively inexperienced middle-order was exposed under pressure. The top-order woes for both the teams have been evident and barring Jonny Bairstow’s blitzkrieg at Southampton, none other has shown intent.

David Willey has been an apple of discord for the Irishmen twice in a row as he thwarted them with a fifer in the first game whereas stitched a winning partnership alongside Sam Billings- who is yet to be dismissed in the series- in the second match.

All of this aside, the find of the series has been the young Curtis Campher, who has troubled England thoroughly with his exploits and will look to continue his good run. Lack of adequate support around him has made his efforts go in the drain, however, Ireland would want to avoid a whitewash by winning the last encounter scheduled tomorrow.

Playing Combinations

England

Having pocketed the series, England might want to make a few changes to fulfill its rotation policy and provide the benchwarmers a chance. Jason Roy has been off on both the occasions, however, he might make the cut as he has been a regular in that slot. Eoin Morgan might give an opportunity to Liam Livingstone, who walked inside to replace the injured Joe Denly but has not got a chance hitherto.

One amongst Tom Banton and James Vince, both of whom have not been too impressive, might be rested to accommodate Livingstone and so should one amongst Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid if England tries to inculcate Liam Dawson inside. Reece Topley, who would have retained his spot otherwise, will miss due to a groin strain. And this could well be a green signal for Tom Curran’s entry inside the XI.

Probable XI – Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone/Tom Banton, James Vince, Sam Billings, Eoin Morgan (C), Liam Dawson/Moeen Ali, Adil Rashid, David Willey, Saqib Mahmood, Tom Curran.

Ireland 

Ireland must be desperate to open its account by earning 10 crucial points and saving itself from the embarrassment of a clean sweep of 3-0. Their batting-unit needs to take charge and must search for ways to counter the new ball. Losing quick wickets straight up casts a burden on their middle order and suffocates the rate of scoring.

William Porterfield might replace Gareth Delany who had a nightmarish outing in the last match as he scored a 12-ball duck. Lorcan Tucker, who has been slightly under par might be rested to give a chance to Gary Wilson and Ireland might as well bring George Dockrell in place of Simi Singh.

Probable XI – Paul Stirling, William Porterfield/Gareth Delany, Andy Balbirnie (C), Kevin O Brien, Gary Wilson/Lorcan Tucker, Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell/ Simi Singh, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young.

Head to Head

Played- 12, England- 10, Ireland- 1, No-Result- 1.

Stat Attack

71 – Jonny Bairstow (4929) needs 71 runs to reach 5000-run landmark in List A matches.

3 – David Willey (147) is only 3 short of 150 List A wickets.

72 – Andy Balbirnie (1928) needs 72 runs to reach 2000-run landmark in ODIs.

Broadcast Details

Match timings- 14:00 local time; 18:30 PM IST

TV- Sony Six, Sony ESPN

Live streaming- Sony Liv