Salt sizzles in Ireland to ensure Bethell’s big day goes to plan

Jacob Bethell’s big day began awkwardly and ended with England dominant.

- Taha Hashim

After Ireland put up 196, some serious work was required as the 21-year-old became his country’s youngest men’s captain.

Enter Phil Salt, ready to make headlines once again. The opener followed his 141 not out against South Africa last Friday with 89 off 46 balls as England secured victory in the first of three Twenty20 internationals with 14 balls to spare.

Ireland’s bowling effort could not live up to their strong display in the first half, when Harry Tector and Lorcan Tucker combined for a third-wicket partnership of 123 off 11.2 overs, the former top-scoring with an unbeaten 61 off 36 balls.

Salt, hammering with the pull shot, showed he can do it in the chase, too. Another rollicking opening stand with Jos Buttler - they amassed 74 inside five overs - made the remainder comfortable, a spurt of late wickets causing little bother.