England seal T20I series with six-wicket win over Ireland

Dublin, 22 September 2025:

England clinched a six-wicket win over Ireland in the third and final T20I on Sunday, securing a 2-0 series victory behind Jordan Cox’s half-century.

Cox, recalled to the side for his first international appearance since November, struck 55 off 37 balls to steer England past Ireland’s total of 155 with 17 deliveries to spare. Tom Banton finished the job with an unbeaten knock as England coasted to victory despite losing two early wickets in the powerplay.

Adil Rashid led England’s disciplined bowling effort, taking three wickets for 29. Jamie Overton and Liam Dawson chipped in with two wickets each, while Ireland’s top order faltered after opener Ross Adair’s quick 33. Gareth Delany provided late resistance with an unbeaten 48 off 29 balls, but Ireland never looked likely to defend its total.

Cox, added to the squad late after starring in The Hundred, returned to the XI following injury setbacks that delayed his Test debut earlier this year. The 22-year-old appeared to jar his knee while catching Adair but insisted he was not going to miss the chance to bat.

“There was no chance I wasn’t going to bat because I might have to wait for another two years,” Cox said. “Getting into this team is pretty tough … I’m not going to let the opportunity to play for my country go because of a sore knee.”

The win followed England’s triumph in the series opener on Wednesday, when Phil Salt’s 80 guided the visitors past Ireland’s 196. Friday’s second match was washed out without a ball bowled.

The series was the first T20 meeting between the two sides.