The much-anticipated Women’s T20I Tri-Series in Dublin begins with an exciting clash between Ireland Women and Pakistan Women at Castle Avenue. With the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup approaching fast, both sides will view this series as a valuable opportunity to test combinations and build momentum in challenging English-like conditions. The contest also carries added spice after Ireland stunned Pakistan 2-1 during their previous T20I series at the same venue in 2025. While Pakistan arrive with confidence after dominating Zimbabwe recently, Ireland will be eager to make home conditions count once again.
Ireland banking on home advantage
Ireland Women head into the opener with plenty of confidence despite missing regular skipper Gaby Lewis. Under the leadership of Orla Prendergast, the hosts possess a balanced unit capable of troubling stronger opponents, especially in familiar conditions. Young wicketkeeper-batter Amy Hunter will have a crucial role at the top of the order. Her attacking approach can provide Ireland with quick starts during the powerplay. Prendergast herself remains the backbone of the team thanks to her ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
The experienced Laura Delany will be expected to stabilize the middle order, while Leah Paul’s left-arm spin could become a major factor on a surface that may slow down later in the innings. Ireland’s pace attack, led by Arlene Kelly, will aim to exploit the early moisture and overcast conditions. Having already beaten Pakistan at this venue last year, Ireland know exactly how to approach these conditions and will look to put pressure on the visitors from the start.
Pakistan eye revenge in Dublin
Pakistan Women arrive in Ireland with renewed confidence after a commanding tour of Zimbabwe where they swept the series across formats. However, the conditions in Dublin will pose a completely different challenge. Captain Fatima Sana leads a well-rounded side with a strong bowling attack. Pakistan’s spin department remains their biggest strength, with Sadia Iqbal and Nashra Sandhu expected to play key roles during the middle overs. Both bowlers have the ability to choke scoring opportunities and force mistakes from the batters.
Pakistan’s batting hopes will heavily rely on opener Muneeba Ali, who has fond memories of Castle Avenue after smashing an unbeaten century here in 2025. If she survives the initial swing threat, Pakistan could post a competitive total or chase confidently. The visitors will also depend on experienced pacer Diana Baig to make early breakthroughs with the new ball in helpful conditions.
IRE-W vs PAK-W, 1st T20I: Match details
- Date and Time: May 28; 8:30 pm IST / 3 pm GMT / 4 pm Local
- Venue: Castle Avenue, Dublin
IRE-W vs PAK-W, Head-to-Head Record in T20Is
Matches played: 22 | IRE-W won: 6 | PAK-W won: 16 | No result/Tied: 0
Castle Avenue Pitch Report
Castle Avenue generally offers a good batting surface, but conditions early in the game are expected to assist seamers significantly. Moisture and grass on the wicket could generate movement and bounce during the first few overs. Batters who survive the challenging opening spell are likely to enjoy better scoring opportunities later. The fast outfield further rewards timing and placement.
Weather forecasts suggest cloudy conditions throughout the match, with temperatures hovering between 15°C and 21°C. Swing bowling could therefore become a decisive factor, particularly during the evening phase. Teams chasing have historically enjoyed success at this venue, winning six of the eight Women’s T20Is played here so far. Winning the toss and bowling first could therefore be the preferred option.
Squads
Ireland Women: Amy Hunter(w), Orla Prendergast(c), Leah Paul, Laura Delany, Rebecca Stokell, Ava Canning, Arlene Kelly, Cara Murray, Lara McBride, Louise Little, Georgina Dempsey, Alana Dalzell, Aimee Maguire, Coulter Reilly
Pakistan Women: Iram Javed, Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali(w), Fatima Sana(c), Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Eyman Fatima, Natalia Pervaiz, Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal, Tuba Hassan, Tasmia Rubab, Saira Jabeen
Also READ: Gaby Lewis to lead Ireland’s squad for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026
IRE-W vs PAK-W, 1st T20I: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- IRE-W wins the toss and bowl first
- PAK-W powerplay score: 40-50
- PAK-W total score: 170-180
Case 2:
- PAK-W wins the toss and bowl first
- IRE-W powerplay score: 35-45
- IRE-W total score: 160-170
Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
