England's white-ball outfit delivered a blistering response to their shock defeat in the opening match, securing a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over Ireland in the second T20 international at Malahide.
Chasing a modest target of 155, the tourists made light work of the run chase, cruising home with a whopping 5.2 overs to spare. The victory levels the three-match series at 1-1, setting up a tantalising decider on Sunday.
Salt Storms to Unbeaten 86
The innings was anchored by a magnificent, unbeaten knock from opener Phil Salt. The dynamic batsman was in imperious form, smashing 86 runs from just 54 balls. His innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression, featuring 11 fours and 3 sixes that dismantled the Irish bowling attack.
Salt found a capable partner in Will Jacks (34), with the pair putting on a rapid 78-run partnership for the second wicket that effectively ended the contest. England's batting line-up, which faltered in the first game, looked back to its destructive best.
Irish Hopes Dashed After Promising Start
Earlier, Ireland had posted 154 for 7 from their allotted 20 overs after being put in to bat. Captain Paul Stirling top-scored with a spirited 35, while Gareth Delany provided late fireworks with a quickfire 26. However, the hosts will rue a middle-order collapse that prevented them from building a more formidable total.
England's bowling unit showed marked improvement, with paceman Richard Gleeson the pick of the attack, claiming 2-30. The disciplined bowling performance kept the Irish batsmen in check throughout the innings.
Series Goes Down to the Wire
This emphatic response from Matthew Mott's side sets the stage for a thrilling series finale. After Ireland's stunning three-wicket win in the first match, England have reasserted their authority with a performance that showcases their formidable firepower.
All eyes now turn to the third and final T20 international at the same venue on Sunday, where both teams will battle it out for series glory in what promises to be a captivating conclusion to this hard-fought contest.
