Ireland Edges Italy in Thrilling 1st T20I Opener: UAE Series Kicks Off with Edge-of-Seat Drama

In a nail-biting start to their historic three-match T20I series in Dubai, Ireland defeated Italy by three wickets on January 23, 2026, at The Sevens Stadium, chasing down 119 with just 2.3 overs to spare.

Italy, making their debut in a bilateral T20I series against an ICC Full Member nation, posted 118 all out in 18.1 overs after a quick start. Anthony Mosca top-scored with 35, but Ireland's bowlers struck back decisively. Matthew Humphreys shone with figures of 4-16, including two wickets in two balls in his final over, while Barry McCarthy claimed 2-14 to restrict the Italians.

Chasing a modest target, Ireland stumbled early, losing captain Paul Stirling in the first over. Ross Adair and Harry Tector steadied the ship, with Tector smashing 41 and Lorcan Tucker unbeaten on 34. Their crucial 71-run partnership tilted the game in Ireland's favor. Despite Italy's spinner Grant Stewart taking 3-21, Ben Calitz guided Ireland home with a couple of runs off the penultimate over.

This victory marks Ireland's strong preparations for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, fine-tuning their skills on UAE pitches. Italy, having qualified via the Europe Regional Final in July 2025, showed promise but faltered under pressure, using the series as vital practice for their global debut.

The series continues with the 2nd T20I on Sunday, January 25, and the 3rd on Monday, January 26, both at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai. Ireland leads 1-0, with their head-to-head record now 2-0 after a seven-run win in a 2023 qualifier.

Key performers: Humphreys' spin wizardry and Tector-Tucker resilience highlighted Ireland's depth, while Italy's resilience offers hope despite the loss.