Ireland vs USA Women T20 has this beautiful habit of sneaking up on you. One moment it’s just another group-stage fixture on paper, and the next—it feels like a mini final. That’s exactly the kind of energy surrounding the Ireland vs USA Women T20.
Two ambitious teams. One crucial match. And a World Cup dream hanging delicately in the balance.
Scheduled for January 22, 2026, at the scenic Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, this encounter promises intensity, strategy, and no shortage of drama. Ireland won the toss and chose to bat first—but as any cricket fan knows, that’s just the opening chapter of a much bigger story.
So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s unpack everything you need to know—match preview, toss update, team news, playing XIs, form guide, key players, pitch conditions, and live streaming details—all in one place.
Match Overview: Ireland vs USA – A Crucial Group Stage Battle
This is Match 9 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026, and while it may not carry the word “knockout,” make no mistake—this game could shape the entire tournament.
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Match: Ireland Women vs USA Women
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Tournament: ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026
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Date: January 22, 2026
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Time: 8:45 AM IST
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Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
With points, momentum, and net run rate all in play, both teams know the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Why This Match Matters More Than It Seems
Let’s be honest—qualifiers don’t always get the spotlight they deserve. But this one? It’s different.
Ireland and the USA are not just fighting for points; they’re fighting for validation, growth, and global respect in women’s cricket. A strong performance here sends a message—not just to rivals, but to the cricketing world.
For Ireland, it’s about consistency and leadership.
For the USA, it’s about proving they belong on this stage.
Think of this match as a tightrope walk—one wrong step, and the pressure multiplies.
Points Table Situation Before the Match
Ireland Women: Steady and Confident
Ireland entered this qualifier with quiet confidence—and so far, they’ve delivered.
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Position: 2nd on the points table
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Matches Played: 1
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Matches Won: 1
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Momentum: Positive
A win today could push Ireland closer to the top of the standings, strengthening their qualification hopes early in the tournament.
USA Women: In Search of Consistency
The USA team has shown flashes of brilliance but hasn’t quite stitched it all together yet.
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Position: 3rd on the points table
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Matches Played: 2
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Matches Won: 1
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Matches Lost: 1
For them, this match is about balance—between aggression and discipline, confidence and caution.
Toss Update: Ireland Opt to Bat First
Tosses don’t win matches—but they do set the tone.
Ireland Women won the toss and elected to bat first, signaling confidence in their batting depth and a desire to post a competitive total.
On a surface like Kirtipur, batting first can be a calculated gamble. Put runs on the board, apply pressure, and let your bowlers dictate terms later.
It’s a decision rooted in belief—and Ireland clearly believes in their lineup.
Pitch Report: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
Nestled against a backdrop of hills, the Kirtipur ground is as beautiful as it is challenging.
What to Expect from the Pitch
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Generally balanced, offering something for both batters and bowlers
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Early overs may assist seam movement
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Spinners often come into play as the match progresses
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Outfield is quick, rewarding good timing
In simple terms? Smart cricket will win here—not reckless hitting.
Weather Conditions: A Clear Day for Cricket
Good news for fans and players alike—weather is expected to stay clear and dry.
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No rain interruptions
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Mild winter conditions
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Ideal for a full 20-over contest
In other words, no excuses. Just pure cricket.
Ireland Women Playing XI: Strength Through Balance
Ireland Women XI
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Amy Hunter
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Orla Prendergast
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Leah Paul
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Laura Delany
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Rebecca Stokell
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Arlene Kelly
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Aimee Maguire
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Lara McBride
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Ava Canning
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(Additional squad rotation as per conditions)
This team has a solid top order, flexible middle, and bowlers who can adapt. Captain Gaby Lewis remains the heartbeat—calm under pressure and sharp in execution.
USA Women Playing XI: Youth Meets Ambition
The USA squad is a blend of emerging talent and growing leadership.
USA Women XI
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Disha Dhingra
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Chetna Pagydyala
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Ella Claridge (Wicketkeeper)
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Isani Vaghela
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Aditiba Chudasama (Captain)
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Ritu Priya Singh
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Pooja Ganesh
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Tara Norris
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Taranum Chopra
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Maahi Madhavan
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Saanvi Immadi
This lineup may not have the depth of Ireland’s—but what it lacks in experience, it makes up for in fearlessness.
Key Players to Watch: Who Could Turn the Game?
Ireland: Gaby Lewis & Orla Prendergast
Gaby Lewis is the kind of player who anchors innings like a seasoned sailor in rough waters. Orla Prendergast, on the other hand, brings spark—capable of quick runs and timely breakthroughs.
Together, they form Ireland’s spine.
USA: Aditiba Chudasama & Tara Norris
Captain Aditiba Chudasama leads from the front, while Tara Norris adds firepower with the ball. If USA are to upset Ireland, these two must deliver.
Tactical Battle: Where the Match Could Be Won
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Ireland will aim to build steadily, targeting a 130–150 total
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USA will look for early wickets to disrupt rhythm
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Spin in the middle overs could be decisive
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Fielding standards may swing momentum
This isn’t about brute force—it’s about timing and temperament.
Head-to-Head Context: A Growing Rivalry
While Ireland has historically been the stronger side, the gap is narrowing. The USA women program has grown rapidly, and match like this are proof that women’s cricket is expanding beyond traditional powerhouses.
Every ball here writes a new chapter.
Live Streaming Details: How to Watch Ireland vs USA
Don’t want to miss a single delivery? Here how you can watch the match live.
Live Streaming Platforms
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India: FanCode App
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Nepal: Kantipur Max App
As of now, there is no free-to-air TV broadcast in India, so digital streaming is your best bet.
What’s at Stake: More Than Just Points
A win here doesn’t just boost standings—it boosts belief.
For Ireland, it’s about cementing their status as a consistent qualifier contender.
For the USA, it’s about showing they can punch above their weight.
Cricket, after all, is as much about psychology as it is about skill.
The Bigger Picture: Women’s Cricket on the Rise
Matches like Ireland vs USA may not dominate headlines yet—but they are the foundation of a stronger, more inclusive cricketing future.
Every qualifier, every upset, every breakthrough performance adds another brick to the house women’s cricket is building globally.
And that’s something worth celebrating.
Conclusion
Ireland vs USA Women T20 is more than just a group-stage fixture. It’s a contest of ambition, preparation, and nerve. With Ireland batting first after winning the toss, the stage is set for a fascinating encounter at Kirtipur. IIreland vs USA Women T20
Whether you’re tracking qualification scenarios or simply enjoying quality women’s cricket, this is one match you shouldn’t miss.
Cricket has a funny way of reminding us why we love it—sometimes not through blockbuster finals, but through gritty qualifiers like this one. Ireland vs USA may seem modest on paper, but on the field, it carries dreams, determination, and the unmistakable thrill of the chase. And honestly, isn’t that what makes cricket beautiful?