England began the Jacob Bethell era in style as Phil Salt’s blistering 89 set up a four-wicket win over Ireland in the first T20I of the three-match series in Malahide on Wednesday. The record-breaking evening marked the start of Bethell’s reign as England’s youngest-ever captain, leading in Harry Brook’s absence at just 21.
After putting Ireland into bat, Bethell’s bowlers struggled as the hosts piled on 196/3. But the imposing target was made to look tame as Salt and Jos Buttler (28 off 10) smashed 74 off just 28 balls for the opening wicket, effectively breaking Ireland’s spirit in the powerplay.
Salt Dominates, Bethell Contributes
Salt, fresh from his 141 against South Africa, looked destined for another T20I century before falling for 89 off 46 balls. Bethell himself chipped in with 24 in the chase, ensuring he played a part in his maiden outing as captain. The innings was eventually wrapped up by Jamie Overton, who struck the winning runs to seal England’s first T20I win over Ireland and hand them a 1-0 series lead.
It feels pretty special. To win the first one’s always nice. Coming here was a bit of an unknown. We thought they got a couple too many, but now we know how to defend more and how to take wickets at this ground. Can’t wait for Friday.
Tector And Tucker Give Ireland Hope
Ireland’s innings had been powered by Lorcan Tucker (55) and Harry Tector (61*), whose 123-run third-wicket partnership laid the foundation for the 196 total. Openers Paul Stirling and Ross Adair had earlier added 57, while George Dockrell finished the innings in style by hammering the only ball he faced for six.
But England’s attack, missing Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse, looked flat. Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid and Jamie Overton claimed a wicket apiece, but much of the damage had already been done.
Irish Bowlers Unable To Stem Flow
Despite a decent effort from Matthew Humphreys (2-44) and Graham Hume (2-36), Ireland could not contain the free-flowing England top order. Salt’s ferocity, Buttler’s cameo and cameos down the order proved decisive.
The way those guys play, they know they can access wherever they want. It’s hard to stay a step ahead. We thought it was an above-par score, but England’s batting was amazing. We’ll look forward to Friday.
Brief Scores: Ireland 196/3 in 20 overs (Harry Tector 61*, Lorcan Tucker 55; Adil Rashid 1-36, Liam Dawson 1-39, Jamie Overton 1-40) England 197/6 in 17.4 overs (Phil Salt 89, Jos Buttler 28, Sam Curran 27; Graham Hume 2-36, Matthew Humphreys 2-44) England won by 4 wickets.
