Rinku Over Shivam Dube, Sanju Gets Another Go; India's Probable XI for First T20I vs Ireland

Bumrah is back as captain for the Indian team against the Irish men (Twitter)

Following their tour of the West Indies, Team India's upcoming challenge is a 3-match T20I series against Ireland. The India vs Ireland 2023 series is scheduled to commence on August 18th and conclude on August 23rd, 2023. Notably, India had previously toured Ireland in 2018 and 2022, emerging victorious in both instances with a 2-0 win in the T20I series.

Given the proximity of the 2024 T20 World Cup, set to take place in the West Indies and the USA, this series holds significant value as a learning opportunity for the newly added and less experienced players in the Indian T20I squad.

A noteworthy aspect of this series is the return of multiple players, with special focus on experienced fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah's return has sparked considerable conversation, given his recovery from a back injury sustained during his last appearance against England in 2022. Of notable significance, Bumrah will also be assuming the role of captain for the T20I squad, marking his inaugural experience in a leadership role.

In the capacity of Bumrah's leadership responsibilities, Ruturaj Gaikwad will provide support as his deputy throughout the series. Gaikwad had previously been designated as the captain for a young team slated to compete in the 2023 Asian Games held in Hangzhou.

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India's Probable Playing XI for India vs Ireland T20I

Batters: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma

Tilak Varma has had an outstanding outings against WI (AP News)

The top-order batting line-up of India for the T20I against Ireland seems to be a blend of experience and youth. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal, both highly promising talents, are likely to take the opening slots. Gaikwad's elegant strokeplay and Jaiswal's ability to attack from the outset can provide the team with a strong start.

Sanju Samson, known for his aggressive style of play, could come in at number three. His ability to take on the bowlers from the word go could set the tone for the innings. Joining him might be the versatile Tilak Varma, who can stabilize the middle order while keeping the scoreboard ticking. Additionally, the likes of Jitesh Sharma and Rinku Singh provide valuable depth to the batting line-up, ensuring India's batting doesn't taper off towards the end.

All Rounder: Washington Sundar

Indian all-rounder, Washington Sundar (Twitter)

Washington Sundar's inclusion as the sole all-rounder in the probable playing XI lends balance to the team. Sundar's off-spin bowling can be effective on any track, and his ability to contribute with the bat adds an extra dimension to the team's strategy. Whether it's setting a solid foundation or playing a finishing role, Sundar's versatility makes him a vital asset.

Bowlers: Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh

The bowling attack seems to be India's strength, with a potent mix of pacers and spinners. Jasprit Bumrah, a world-class fast bowler, is expected to spearhead the pace attack. His ability to bowl accurately in the death overs and generate pace off the wicket can put pressure on the Irish batsmen.

Prasidh Krishna, known for his raw pace and ability to generate bounce, can complement Bumrah's aggression. His variation and bounce could trouble the batsmen, especially on surfaces that offer some assistance to the bowlers.

Indian bowler, Arshdeep Singh (Twitter)

Arshdeep Singh, another pace option, could be crucial in providing breakthroughs and maintaining pressure on the opposition. His left-arm angle and ability to swing the ball could add another dimension to the bowling attack.

In the spin department, Ravi Bishnoi's leg-spin could be a game-changer. His ability to deceive batsmen with his variations and extract turn from the pitch could make him a valuable asset in the middle overs.

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What is the schedule for India vs Ireland T20I?

As the T20I match between India and Ireland draws closer, the anticipation among fans is building up. India's probable playing XI showcases a mix of young talents and experienced players who can collectively contribute to a strong performance. The selected batters, all-rounder, and bowlers bring a blend of aggression, versatility, and skill that could prove to be the winning formula against a competitive Irish team. 

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