IND vs IRE 1st T20I: India are set to return to T20I action for the first time since lifting the T20 World Cup 2026 trophy as they take on Ireland in the opening match of the two-match series on Friday at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast.

The match marks the beginning of a new era for the Men in Blue, with Shreyas Iyer leading the side after taking over the captaincy from Suryakumar Yadav. India will head into the contest as favourites, having maintained a perfect record against Ireland in T20Is, winning all eight previous meetings.

Belfast Weather Forecast for IND vs IRE 1st T20I

The weather in Belfast is expected to remain mostly pleasant on Friday, offering hope for a full game. According to forecasts, temperatures are likely to range between 15°C and 23°C during the day. The first T20I is scheduled to begin at 1:30 PM local time, which is 6:00 PM IST.

There is only a slight chance of rain during the match. However, thunderstorms are predicted for a brief period between 2 PM and 3 PM local time, with the possibility of rain ranging between 51 and 59%. Despite this, major interruptions are not expected, and fans can look forward to a competitive contest.

Belfast Pitch Report for IND vs IRE 1st T20I

The Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast will host a T20I for the first time in almost four years. The venue has witnessed several international matches, including T20 World Cup fixtures, but generally offers assistance to bowlers.

The average first-innings score at the ground stands at 127 runs, suggesting that another low-scoring game could be on the cards.

Teams batting first have enjoyed considerable success at the venue, winning around 83 percent of matches. As a result, the captain winning the toss is likely to opt to bat first and put runs on the board.

• Average first-innings score: 127
• Run rate: 6.70
• Boundary percentage: 6.7%
• Dot-ball percentage: 15.6%

The middle overs have traditionally been the most productive phase for both batters and bowlers. A total of 1,588 runs have been scored during this period in T20Is at the venue, while 38 wickets have fallen.

In the powerplay, teams have scored 1,141 runs with 23 wickets lost, while the death overs have produced 1,054 runs and 18 wickets.

India eye winning start under Shreyas Iyer

India will be eager to begin life under their new captain with a victory and continue their unbeaten run against Ireland in T20Is.

With favourable weather conditions, a balanced pitch and two competitive teams taking the field, fans can expect an exciting contest in Belfast as India’s post-T20 World Cup journey gets underway.

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