Ireland vs England: Tourists cruise to victory in opening T20 in Dublin

England were disappointed to lose the final ODI after dominating the opening two matches and responded in style, thoroughly outclassing their opponents.

Both teams are inexperienced in this series but England’s professional domestic structure makes all the difference, with their players outside of the first-choice squad looking completely at ease.

Smith, playing her first international since September 2022, batted like she had never been away, whacking 12 fours as she equalled Danni Wyatt’s fastest half-century for an Englishwoman from 24 balls.

Smith dominated the strike over opening partner Beaumont, who made 27, but both put pressure on Ireland’s bowlers with their attacking approach, racing to 65-0 after the powerplay.

After the initial collapse, it looked like England could waste their excellent start only for Villiers to take the initiative with a superb, innovative cameo.

Her knock meant the second collapse did not really matter, while England’s bowlers ensured the total was more than enough, with a particularly pleasing return to form for Issy Wong.

Wong took 2-14, including her first international wicket since December 2022 after a difficult couple of years where she has struggled with her rhythm and run-up.

Pavely, 19, impressively continued the squeeze with relentless control in the middle overs and when Prendergast was run out in the 13th over, Ireland’s hopes faded.

The hosts will seek immediate improvement, and less reliance on Prendergast, in the final T20 on Sunday.