Now that New Zealand has clinched the ODI series by 3-0, their multi-format tour of Ireland moves on to a three match long T20I series that will be hosted at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Belfast, starting July 18.
Up until now, the hosts have not been able to beat New Zealand on any occasion. However, all three of their losses came in close encounters that New Zealand won by 1 wicket, 3 wickets, and 1 run respectively.
Harry Tector comes into the Twenty-20 series after posting two brilliant centuries and has found able allies in Geroge Dockrell and Paul Stirling. Young all-rounder Curtis Campher, and Mark Adair, have consistently taken wickets.
For the Kiwis, Michael Bracwell has scored 190 runs and is yet to be dismissed. Guptill, Santner, & Matt Henry have also played their part pretty well.
It will be really interesting to see whether or not Balbirnie’s Ireland can finally turn their luck to grab a win or two. The three T20Is will be played on 18, 20 and 22 July respectively.
Civil Service Cricket Club information
Capacity: 6000 spectators.
Location: Belfast, Ireland.
Established in: 1949
Belfast T20 Records
The Civil Service Cricket Club of Belfast has hosted a total 18 T20 matches in the past. 12 have been won by the team batting second, while the team batting first has come out on top on six instances.
Though the highest recorded score at the ground is 190/5, the average score is just 114 for the first innings and 101 for the second.
Chasing looks to be the way to go for the captain who bosses the toss.
Civil Service Cricket Club Belfast Pitch Report
Pacers may get some assistance with the new ball, especially in the first innings. Other than that, a little bit of dew sets in as the game goes on.
Overall, the pitch is batting-friendly and some good scores have been set in recent past.
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Weather Forecast
The temperature for the games may vary from 12 to 25 degree celsius. There is a fair chance of a drizzle on July 20 and 22.
Thus, do not be too surprised if a match is shortened or washed out due to heavy clouds.