A determined half-century from Jordan Cox, delivered while visibly struggling with a knee injury, guided England to a six-wicket victory over Ireland in the final T20 international, securing a 2-0 series win.
The 24-year-old batsman, who had earlier left the field after jarring his knee while fielding, returned to produce a match-winning 55 from just 35 deliveries. His innings proved crucial in England’s chase of 155 runs at Malahide Cricket Club.
Cox entered with England at 33-2 and immediately showcased the form that made him the leading run-scorer in this season’s domestic Hundred competition. Despite obvious discomfort that saw him frequently clutching his knee between deliveries, he struck the ball cleanly, racing to 22 from his first eight balls.
“I wasn’t going to miss this chance,” Cox said afterward. “When you get an opportunity to represent your country, you play through whatever discomfort you’re feeling. The mindset was simple – go out there and enjoy it like franchise cricket.”
Tom Banton provided valuable support with an unbeaten 37, sharing a 49-run partnership with Cox that steadied England’s innings after early wickets. Phil Salt contributed a measured 29 from 23 balls before England comfortably reached their target with overs to spare.
Earlier, Ireland’s innings of 154-8 featured contributions from Ross Adair (33 from 23 balls) and Gareth Delany, who struck consecutive sixes in his quickfire cameo. England’s spin attack proved effective, with Liam Dawson and Rehan Ahmed making early breakthroughs while Adil Rashid’s variations troubled the middle order.
The victory completes a successful T20 campaign for England after rain affected the second match of the series. For Cox, who has endured multiple injury setbacks in his young international career, this gritty performance under physical duress marked a significant breakthrough at the highest level.
