Welcome to IPL Star, your go-to source for all things cricket, from IPL buzz to international showdowns. Today, we’re diving deep into the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026. This match is set to be a nail-biter as Ireland looks to seal the series, while UAE fights back on home turf. With Ireland leading 1-0 after a convincing 57-run win in the first game, the stakes are high. Let’s break it all down – from pitch secrets to player spotlights – to get you ready for the action.
The UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 is more than just a game; it’s a battle of resilience and strategy in the Ireland tour of UAE 2026. Ireland dominated the opener, posting 178/6 and bowling UAE out for 121. Now, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, UAE aims to level the series. We’ll cover every angle to help you understand why this could be a turning point for both teams.
Match Details: Everything You Need to Know About UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
The UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 is the decider in this short but intense series. Here’s a quick snapshot in table form for easy reference:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Series | Ireland tour of United Arab Emirates 2026 (2 T20Is) |
| Match | 2nd T20I |
| Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Time | 10:00 AM Local (Dubai), 6:00 AM GMT, 11:30 AM IST |
| Venue | Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE |
| Format | T20 International |
| Series Status | Ireland leads 1-0 |
| Umpires | Expected: Akbar Ali, Shamim Chowdhury (based on recent matches) |
| Match Referee | Expected: Graeme Labrooy (from similar series) |
| Broadcast | FanCode (Streaming in India) |
This daytime start means no major dew issues, unlike evening games. The series is part of both teams’ build-up to future global events, like the T20 World Cup qualifiers. UAE, hosting, will draw on home crowd energy, while Ireland brings European grit to the desert.
Why does this matter? For UAE, a win boosts their ICC rankings among associate nations. Ireland, fresh from European successes, wants a clean sweep to build momentum. The first match saw Ireland’s spinners shine, taking key wickets. Expect similar tactics today.
Venue Guide: Dubai International Cricket Stadium – A Fortress for Balanced Battles
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium is no stranger to thrilling T20 cricket. Known as the “Ring of Fire” for its floodlights, it has hosted over 125 T20Is. Let’s look at the key venue stats in a table:
| Venue Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25,000 |
| Ends | Emirates Road End, Dubai Sports City End |
| Hosts | United Arab Emirates |
| Total T20Is Played | 125 (as of January 2026) |
| Matches Won Batting First | 55 (50.93%) |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 53 (49.07%) |
| Highest Team Total | 212/2 (India vs Afghanistan, 2023) |
| Lowest Team Total | 55 (West Indies vs England, 2021) |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 147 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 129 |
| Pace Wickets Percentage | 58.55% |
| Spin Wickets Percentage | 41.45% |
This stadium favors teams that adapt quickly. Early on, pacers get swing and bounce from the new ball. As the game progresses, the pitch slows, bringing spinners into play. In recent 2025-2026 matches, scores have trended higher, around 160-170, due to better batting techniques.
UAE has a strong record here, winning several home series. Ireland, however, triumphed in the first T20I, chasing down conditions perfectly. The outfield is fast, rewarding well-timed shots. Boundaries are around 65-70 meters, making sixes possible but not easy.
Fun fact: This venue hosted the 2021 T20 World Cup final. Its history adds prestige to the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026.
Pitch Report: Analyzing the Surface for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
The pitch at Dubai International Cricket Stadium for the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 is expected to be balanced, much like the first game. Batters who settle in can score freely, but rash shots lead to wickets. Spinners will dominate the middle overs, with turn and grip available.
Here’s a detailed pitch stats table from recent T20Is:
| Pitch Aspect | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Surface Type | Dry, grass-covered with cracks |
| Early Behavior | Good bounce and carry for pacers |
| Middle Overs | Slows down; spinners get turn (average 1-2 degrees) |
| Late Behavior | Minimal dew in daytime; easier batting if set |
| Par Score (Batting First) | 160-170 |
| Chasing Success Rate | 55% (slight edge due to pitch wear) |
| Key Challenge | Building partnerships; avoiding dot balls |
In the first T20I, Ireland posted 178/6, thanks to Harry Tector’s steady knock. UAE struggled, folding for 121 as spinners like Matthew Humphreys (3 wickets) exploited the surface. Expect similar today – UAE might opt for more spin if they win the toss.
Dew factor? Negligible for this 10 AM start. Unlike night games where dew makes gripping tough, clear daytime conditions favor accurate bowling throughout.
Favorable for: Teams with strong spin attacks like Ireland. UAE’s pacers, like Junaid Siddique, could strike early.
Weather Forecast: Perfect Conditions for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
Weather can make or break a cricket match, but fans can breathe easy for the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026. Dubai’s forecast is ideal.
Table of weather details:
| Weather Element | Prediction |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 18-21°C (pleasant, no heat exhaustion risks) |
| Humidity | 50-60% (comfortable) |
| Wind Speed | 5-10 km/h (light, minimal impact on swing) |
| Precipitation | 0% chance of rain |
| Sky Conditions | Clear skies |
| Overall Impact | No interruptions; full 40 overs expected |
These conditions suit both teams. No rain delays mean uninterrupted play. Cooler temps help bowlers maintain energy, while batters won’t face sweaty grips. From sources like AccuWeather and local UAE reports, it’s set to be a cricketer’s dream day.
Toss Timing Prediction and Impact: A Crucial Edge in UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
The toss for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 is expected around 9:30 AM local time, 30 minutes before the start.
Table of toss insights:
| Toss Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Timing | 9:30-9:45 AM Local |
| Historical Win Rate | Toss winner wins match ~52% at this venue |
| Preferred Choice | Bowl first (exploit early movement, chase later) |
| Impact on Game | Slight advantage to chasers due to pitch slowing |
Given the balanced pitch and minimal dew, captains will likely bowl first. In the first T20I, Ireland won the toss, batted, and set a target UAE couldn’t chase. UAE captain Muhammad Waseem might choose differently if he calls correctly – bowl and restrict Ireland under 160.
Why bowl first? Early swing helps pacers like Josh Little (Ireland) or Muhammad Jawadullah (UAE). As the pitch dries, batting second becomes easier.
Squad Analysis: Breaking Down UAE and Ireland Teams for 2nd T20I 2026
Both squads blend experience with youth. UAE relies on home knowledge, Ireland on all-round depth.
Full squads in tables:
UAE Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Muhammad Waseem (c) | Opening Batter |
| Basil Hameed | Middle-order Batter |
| Rahul Chopra | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Haider Ali | Bowler |
| Junaid Siddique | Bowler |
| Harshit Kaushik | Allrounder |
| Muhammad Arfan | Bowler |
| Muhammad Farooq | Allrounder |
| Muhammad Jawadullah | Bowler |
| Muhammad Rohid | Bowler |
| Muhammad Zohaib | Opening Batter |
| Alishan Sharafu | Opening Batter |
| Aryansh Sharma | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Simranjeet Singh | Bowler |
| Sohaib Khan | Middle-order Batter |
Ireland Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Paul Stirling (c) | Batting Allrounder |
| Ross Adair | Top-order Batter |
| Mark Adair | Bowling Allrounder |
| Ben Calitz | Middle-order Batter |
| Curtis Campher | Allrounder |
| Gareth Delany | Batting Allrounder |
| George Dockrell | Allrounder |
| Matthew Humphreys | Bowler |
| Josh Little | Bowler |
| Barry McCarthy | Bowler |
| Harry Tector | Middle-order Batter |
| Tim Tector | Top-order Batter |
| Lorcan Tucker | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Ben White | Bowler |
| Craig Young | Bowler |
UAE’s strength: Aggressive openers like Waseem and Sharafu. Their bowling has pace variety but lacks depth in spin compared to Ireland.
Ireland’s edge: Balanced allrounders like Campher and Dockrell. Their spin trio (Humphreys, Delany, Dockrell) was lethal in the first game.
No major injuries reported from online sources like ESPNcricinfo and Cricbuzz. UAE might rotate to include more spin, like Muhammad Farooq.
Probable Playing XI: Lineups for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
Based on the first match and form, here are predicted XIs.
UAE Probable XI:
| Position | Player | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Muhammad Waseem (c) | Aggressive opener, leadership |
| 2 | Alishan Sharafu | Explosive starts |
| 3 | Aryansh Sharma (wk) | Solid keeper-batter |
| 4 | Basil Hameed | Middle-order anchor |
| 5 | Rahul Chopra | Finisher |
| 6 | Harshit Kaushik | Allround utility |
| 7 | Muhammad Farooq | Spin allrounder |
| 8 | Junaid Siddique | Pace spearhead |
| 9 | Haider Ali | Economical bowler |
| 10 | Muhammad Jawadullah | Left-arm pace variation |
| 11 | Muhammad Rohid | Death overs specialist |
Reasoning: UAE needs stability after collapsing in the opener. Sharafu replaces Zohaib for form.
Ireland Probable XI:
| Position | Player | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paul Stirling (c) | Power-hitter opener |
| 2 | Ross Adair | Aggressive top-order |
| 3 | Harry Tector | Consistent middle-order |
| 4 | Lorcan Tucker (wk) | Dynamic keeper-batter |
| 5 | Curtis Campher | Allround finisher |
| 6 | George Dockrell | Spin allrounder |
| 7 | Gareth Delany | Leg-spin threat |
| 8 | Mark Adair | Pace allrounder |
| 9 | Matthew Humphreys | Young spinner star |
| 10 | Josh Little | Left-arm express |
| 11 | Barry McCarthy | Seam variation (or Craig Young if rotated) |
Reasoning: Sticking with winners from the first T20I. Humphreys’ 3-fer earns him a spot.
These lineups suit Dubai’s pitch – Ireland’s spin depth gives them an advantage.
Players to Watch: Stars Who Could Decide UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
Every match has heroes. Here are key players with recent stats in tables.
Top Batters:
| Player | Team | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alishan Sharafu | UAE | 10 | 395 | 43.89 | 138.11 |
| Muhammad Waseem | UAE | 9 | 283 | 31.44 | 119.91 |
| Harry Tector | IRE | 10 | 366 | 52.29 | 138.63 |
| Paul Stirling | IRE | 10 | 218 | 21.80 | 136.25 |
Sharafu: UAE’s firestarter. His quick 50s can set tones. In the first game, he showed promise but fell early.
Waseem: Captain fantastic. Needs to lead from front after a quiet opener.
Tector: Ireland’s rock. His 58 in the first T20I anchored the innings. Expect him to exploit UAE spinners.
Stirling: Boom or bust. If he clicks, Ireland posts 180+.
Top Bowlers:
| Player | Team | Matches | Wickets | Economy | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junaid Siddique | UAE | 9 | 14 | 6.03 | 14.14 |
| Haider Ali | UAE | 8 | 9 | 6.09 | 21.33 |
| Matthew Humphreys | IRE | 10 | 17 | 6.32 | 13.41 |
| Mark Adair | IRE | 8 | 11 | 8.20 | 15.36 |
Siddique: UAE’s pace leader. His early wickets could disrupt Ireland’s top order.
Humphreys: Rising star. His variations bamboozled UAE last time – watch for more magic.
These players’ performances could swing the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026.
Head-to-Head Stats and Records: UAE vs Ireland Rivalry in Focus
The UAE vs Ireland head-to-head is tight, adding spice to the 2nd T20I 2026.
Table of H2H stats:
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| Total T20Is Played | 16 |
| UAE Wins | 7 |
| Ireland Wins | 9 |
| No Result | 0 |
| Last 5 Matches | IRE win (2026 1st), UAE wins (2022 x3, 2021 x1) |
| At Dubai Stadium | IRE 2 wins, UAE 0 in recent (including 2026 1st) |
Ireland snapped UAE’s winning streak in the opener. Historically, UAE thrives at home, but Ireland’s recent form tilts the scales.
Key record: Highest score – Ireland 178/6 (2026 1st T20I). Lowest – UAE 121 (same game).
This rivalry dates back to 2010. UAE’s upsets, like in 2022 qualifiers, show they can compete.
For more H2H Stats ESPNcricinfo.
Recent Performances and Forms: Momentum Check for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
Form guides the narrative.
UAE Recent Form (Last 5 Matches):
| Match | Result |
|---|---|
| vs Ireland (1st T20I 2026) | Lost by 57 runs |
| vs Oman (Nov 2025) | Lost by 2 wickets |
| vs Japan (Oct 2025) | Won by 8 wickets |
| vs Samoa (Oct 2025) | Won by 77 runs |
| vs Oman (Oct 2025) | Lost by 5 wickets |
UAE: Inconsistent. Wins against weaker teams, but losses to peers. Batting collapses are a concern.
Ireland Recent Form (Last 5 Matches):
| Match | Result |
|---|---|
| vs UAE (1st T20I 2026) | Won by 57 runs |
| vs Italy (Jan 2026) | Lost by 4 wickets |
| vs Italy (Jan 2026) | Won by 24 runs |
| vs Italy (Jan 2026) | Won by 3 wickets |
| vs Bangladesh (Dec 2025) | Lost by 8 wickets |
Ireland: Building steam. The UAE win boosts confidence after mixed results.
Overall, Ireland’s depth gives them form edge.
Series Context and Implications: Why UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 Matters
This Ireland tour of UAE 2026 is a two-match T20I series, rare in associate cricket. Context: Both are associate members preparing for ICC events.
Implications table:
| Aspect | For UAE | For Ireland |
|---|---|---|
| Series Win | Levels 1-1; boosts morale | 2-0 sweep; ranking points |
| Rankings Impact | Climb associate ladder | Solidify top associate status |
| Player Development | Test young guns like Sharafu | Integrate spinners for World Cup |
| Broader Picture | Home series success builds fanbase | European team conquering Asia |
For UAE, captain Waseem’s leadership is under scrutiny post-loss. Ireland, under Stirling, eyes consistency. This series echoes past tours, like 2022 where UAE won 3-1.
In global context, it’s prep for 2026 T20 World Cup qualifiers. A strong showing helps funding and exposure.
Winning Prediction: Who Takes the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026?
After analyzing everything, Ireland are favorites for the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026.
Prediction table:
| Prediction Element | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Winner | Ireland (70% chance) |
| Margin | 20-30 runs or 5-7 wickets |
| Key Reason | Superior spin attack, batting depth |
| Score Scenario (If IRE Bat First) | 165-175; UAE chase falls short |
| Upset Chance | UAE if openers fire and restrict early |
Ireland’s momentum from the 57-run win, plus Humphreys’ spin wizardry, tips the scale. UAE needs a miracle from Waseem, but home pressure might hinder.
Bold call: Harry Tector Man of the Match again.
Ireland Tour of UAE 2026: Epic 2-Match T20I Series Preview – Who Will Triumph in Dubai?
How to Watch: Live Streaming and Broadcasting Guide for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
Don’t miss the action! Here’s your guide.
Table of viewing options:
| Region | Platform | Details |
|---|---|---|
| India | FanCode (App/Website) | Subscription-based; highlights post-match |
| Worldwide | Styx Sports (Online) | Free in some regions; check local availability |
| UAE | Local TV (if announced); FanCode | Venue tickets via official UAE cricket site |
| Ireland/Europe | Cricket Ireland YouTube/Website | Live stream with commentary |
| USA/Pakistan/Others | Willow TV/ESPN+ (select regions) | App-based; VPN for geo-restrictions |
Timings: 11:30 AM IST start. For tickets, head to Dubai Stadium site – prices from 50 AED. Mobile tips: Use FanCode app for smooth streaming.
That’s your ultimate guide to UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026. Who do you back? Share in comments!
FAQs for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026
1. When and where is the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 being played? The UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 is scheduled for January 31, 2026, at 10:00 AM local time (6:00 AM GMT / 11:30 AM IST) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, UAE. This daytime fixture is part of the Ireland tour of UAE 2026, with Ireland leading 1-0.
2. What is the pitch report for Dubai International Cricket Stadium in UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026? The Dubai pitch for the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 is expected to be balanced, offering early bounce for pacers and turn for spinners in the middle overs. Average first-innings score is around 160-170 in recent T20Is, with minimal dew due to the daytime start. Par score batting first: 160-170.
3. Who will win the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026? Match prediction and today match winner Ireland are strong favorites (70% chance) to win the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026, thanks to their superior spin attack, 1-0 series lead, and momentum from the 57-run victory in the first game. UAE can upset if their openers fire, but Ireland’s depth makes them the likely winners.
4. What are the probable playing XI for UAE and Ireland in the 2nd T20I 2026? UAE Probable XI: Muhammad Waseem (c), Alishan Sharafu, Aryansh Sharma (wk), Basil Hameed, Rahul Chopra, Harshit Kaushik, Muhammad Farooq, Junaid Siddique, Haider Ali, Muhammad Jawadullah, Muhammad Rohid. Ireland Probable XI: Paul Stirling (c), Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Mark Adair, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy.
5. Which players to watch in UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026? Key players include Alishan Sharafu and Muhammad Waseem (UAE) for explosive batting, Harry Tector and Paul Stirling (Ireland) for anchoring/power-hitting, and spinners Matthew Humphreys (Ireland) and Junaid Siddique (UAE) who can dominate the middle overs on the Dubai pitch.
6. What is the toss prediction and its impact for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026? Captains are likely to bowl first in the UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 due to minimal dew and early assistance for pacers. Toss winner has a ~52% match-win rate at Dubai, with chasing teams enjoying a slight edge as the pitch slows later.
7. Where to watch UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 live streaming and broadcast? In India, stream on FanCode app/website. Globally, check Cricket Ireland YouTube, Styx Sports, or Willow TV/ESPN+ (region-dependent). No major TV broadcast announced, but FanCode is the primary platform for UAE vs Ireland live score and streaming.
8. What is the head-to-head record between UAE and Ireland in T20Is? In 16 T20Is, Ireland lead 9-7. Ireland won the most recent encounter (1st T20I 2026) by 57 runs, snapping UAE’s previous home dominance. At Dubai, Ireland hold a recent edge.
9. What are the best fantasy tips for UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026 Dream11 team? Top fantasy picks: Harry Tector (captain), Matthew Humphreys (vice-captain), Alishan Sharafu, Paul Stirling, Junaid Siddique. Prioritize Ireland spinners and all-rounders due to pitch conditions favoring spin in middle overs.
10. What is the weather forecast for Dubai during UAE vs Ireland 2nd T20I 2026? Clear skies with temperatures 18-21°C, 50-60% humidity, light winds, and 0% chance of rain – perfect conditions for a full match with no interruptions.