India’s new T20I era under Shreyas Iyer begins against Ireland in Belfast on Friday, but the weather could play a major role in the opening match of the two-game series.
The first T20I at Stormont Cricket Ground comes with a significant chance of rain throughout the day, raising concerns over delays, a shortened contest or even a complete washout.
While India enter the series as overwhelming favourites, Ireland will hope familiar home conditions and the unpredictable Belfast weather can help level the playing field.
Ireland vs India Belfast weather forecast today
According to the latest forecast, rain is expected for much of the day, with the highest probability of showers around the scheduled start of play.
| Local Time | Temperature | Chance of Rain |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | 16°C | 45% |
| 10:00 AM | 17°C | 50% |
| 11:00 AM | 18°C | 55% |
| 12:00 PM | 19°C | 60% |
| 1:00 PM | 20°C | 65% |
| 2:00 PM | 21°C | 55% |
| 3:00 PM | 22°C | 45% |
| 4:00 PM | 22°C | 40% |
| 5:00 PM | 21°C | 35% |
| 6:00 PM | 20°C | 30% |
The forecast suggests conditions should gradually improve as the afternoon progresses, although passing showers remain possible throughout the day.
Will rain affect the India vs Ireland 1st T20I?
There is a genuine possibility of rain interrupting play at Stormont.
The likelihood of showers is highest around early afternoon before gradually decreasing closer to the evening. While a full 20-over contest remains possible if the weather clears as expected, interruptions cannot be ruled out.
What happens if rain stops play?
If rain delays or interrupts the match, officials can reduce the number of overs.
A minimum of five overs per side is required for a T20I to produce a result.
If overs are lost, the *Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method will be used to revise the target.
There is no reserve day for the match. If weather prevents the minimum overs from being completed, the game will be abandoned.
India vs Ireland 1st T20I start time
- Match: India vs Ireland, 1st T20I
- Date: Friday, June 26
- Venue: Stormont Cricket Ground, Belfast
- Start time: 6:00 PM IST (1:30 PM local time)
Where to watch India vs Ireland 1st T20I live
The match will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network in India.
Fans can also stream the match live on the SonyLiv app and website.
Story first published: Friday, June 26, 2026, 15:15 [IST]
Source link
#Rain #Affect #India #Ireland #1st #T20I #Belfast #Weather #Forecast #Stormont #Pitch #Update
