Daijiworld Media Network
Belfast, Jun 23: Welcome to the One-off ODI match between Ireland and Australia from Belfast. But, before we get started, let me inform you that the weather over the last couple of days in Belfast has been woeful. There was plenty of rain and the weather is poor even for today.
There is an inspection currently taking place and so far, it is good news. The weather is dry for the moment so let us hope that the rain keeps away. They are expecting to start by 11 AM local, that is at about 3:30 PM IST
Sky Sports have tweeted that the start at Belfast will take place at 11:30 AM local time and there will be no reduction in the overs.
The sun had just peeked out for a moment, but now it is behind the clouds. There are a few drops of rain in the air. The covers are on the pitch as a precaution but the toss will take place in about 5-6 minutes time. The Aussies are continuing their warm-up exercises.
Both the teams are out warming up. One hopes that the rain stays away now.
Australia have won the toss and elected to field
For Ireland, Tim Murtagh, who plays for Middlesex will make his international debut today
Teams:
Australia (Playing XI): David Warner, Matthew Wade(w), Shane Watson, Michael Clarke(c), David Hussey, Peter Forrest, Steven Smith, Brett Lee, Pat Cummins, Xavier Doherty, Ben Hilfenhaus
Ireland (Playing XI): Ed Joyce, Paul Stirling, William Porterfield(c), Niall O'Brien, Gary Wilson(w), Kevin O'Brien, Alex Cusack, John Mooney, Trent Johnston, George Dockrell, Tim Murtagh