England Women will begin their three-match ODI series against Ireland Women on September 1, 2026, with the opening game scheduled at Uptonsteel Grace Road in Leicester. The contest is particularly significant for both teams as it forms part of the ICC Women’s Championship, where every result can influence the race for direct qualification for the next Women’s World Cup. With qualification places at stake, the series carries far greater importance than a routine bilateral assignment.

England face Ireland with a much-changed squad

The series presents an unusual challenge for England, who have made several major changes to their squad. Five experienced campaigners—Heather Knight, all-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt, wicketkeeper Amy Jones, spinner Sophie Ecclestone and fast bowler Lauren Bell—have been rested.

Their absence significantly alters the balance of the home side and could give Ireland an opportunity to make an impact. The Irish team has shown growing confidence against stronger opposition over the past year and will see the depleted English lineup as a chance to collect valuable Championship points away from home.

With England’s established leadership group unavailable, Charlie Dean has been handed the captaincy. The all-rounder enters the series in encouraging form, having scored 171 runs and picked up eight wickets in her previous nine ODIs. Her ability to lead a relatively inexperienced group will be closely watched.

England have also made changes behind the stumps, with Alice Capsey set to take on wicketkeeping duties in the absence of Jones. Meanwhile, uncapped talents such as seamer Grace Potts and wicketkeeper-batter Kira Chathli are in line to make their international debuts, adding another layer of intrigue to the series.

Ireland aim to capitalise on England’s vulnerability

Ireland will enter the series with plenty of belief under the leadership of Gaby Lewis. The visitors possess a promising batting unit, headlined by Amy Hunter, who has produced an excellent run of form in recent ODIs. Hunter has accumulated 193 runs across her last three matches, including two half-centuries, and will be one of Ireland’s key weapons at the top of the order.

All-rounder Orla Prendergast provides further depth to the Irish lineup. Her aggressive strokeplay can change the momentum of an innings quickly, while her medium-pace bowling gives captain Lewis an additional option with the ball.

Ireland have also received a welcome boost to their bowling resources with Arlene Kelly returning from injury. Her ability to maintain a disciplined line and length could prove crucial against an England batting order that lacks several of its regular stars.

Also READ: England hand Charlie Dean captaincy as star-studded squad named for Ireland ODIs

ENG vs IRE, Women’s ODI series, Full schedule

Broadcast and Live Streaming details

• Australia: Fox Cricket HD
• United Kingdom: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Sports Mix
• USA and Canada: Sling TV – Willow TV [Sign up here]
• New Zealand: Sky Sports 2
• India: Sony Sports Network; Sony LIV

Also READ: Ireland name strong squad for Women’s ODI series against England

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.