England v Ireland women's ODI live
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The gist
England women's cricket team faces Ireland in first ODI at Leicester, with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt rested. The three-match series marks Ireland's start in ICC Women's Championship qualification.
Background
England are hosting Ireland in a three-match ODI series starting September 1, 2026, at Leicester. England have rested several senior players including captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, spinner Sophie Ecclestone, and wicketkeeper Amy Jones, giving opportunities to fringe players. The series is part of the ICC Women's Championship, which serves as a pathway to the next 50-over World Cup. Ireland are looking to improve after a disappointing T20 World Cup, while England aim to tune up in the 50-over format.
How it unfolded
- Aug 30, 2026ECB announces how to watch the series, with all matches live on Sky Sports and BBC Test Match Special radio coverage.
- Aug 31, 2026Sky Sports reports England's squad changes, with Alice Capsey set to keep wicket and Charlie Dean captaining in place of rested players.
- Sep 1, 2026 12:32 BSTEngland win the toss and elect to bowl first at Grace Road, Leicester. Ireland captain Gaby Lewis says she would have batted anyway.
- Sep 1, 2026 12:45 BSTTeams announced: Alice Capsey keeps wicket for England; Ireland give young Alice Tector an opening batting chance.
- Sep 1, 2026 12:54 BSTLive blog reports mild weather at 20 degrees in Leicester, with the match underway.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- ECB promotes the series as England Women's return to action after their historic Test against India, with all matches broadcast live.
- Analysts
- Cricket World notes England are ranked 2nd in ODI cricket while Ireland are 10th, and that England have won 18 of 20 previous meetings.
- Public
- Guardian live blog author Geoff Lemon expresses interest in seeing Alice Capsey keep wicket, a move he had wanted during the World Cup.