Hand-picked stories you can't miss
Belfast Wolves will look to strengthen their position in the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) 2026 when they face Dublin Guardians in Match 18 at Malahide Cricket Club in Dublin on September 9. The Wolves have already faced the Guardians once in the inaugural season and will be confident of repeating their success in the second meeting between the two sides.
Led by Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, Belfast have assembled an impressive squad featuring experienced international stars such as Devon Conway, David Miller, Paul Stirling, Mark Chapman and Chris Jordan. Their bowling attack also has considerable depth, with Fred Klaassen, Mark Adair and Saurabh Netravalkar among the options available to the captain.
The Wolves are expected to stick with a strong combination for their second clash against Dublin, with their international experience likely to be complemented by key local players. Here is the predicted playing XI for Match 18.
Paul Stirling is expected to open the innings for Belfast. The experienced Ireland batter remains one of the most dangerous powerplay hitters in T20 cricket and could be crucial against Dublin’s spin-heavy attack.
Stirling’s familiarity with Malahide conditions should also work in his favour. His ability to attack from the outset can provide Belfast with the fast start required to put pressure on the Guardians.
He is likely to partner Devon Conway, who could also take responsibility behind the stumps. The New Zealand left-hander brings a very different style to Stirling, combining composure with the ability to accelerate once he gets settled.
Conway’s wicketkeeping skills also provide Belfast with stability in the field, making him a logical choice to continue in the role. The predicted combination has previously identified Conway as the Wolves’ wicketkeeper-batter.
Mark Chapman is expected to bat at No. 3. The New Zealand all-rounder gives Belfast another left-handed option and can play both the anchor and aggressor roles depending on the match situation.
At No. 4, David Miller will be one of Belfast’s biggest threats. The South African has built a reputation as one of the most destructive finishers in franchise cricket and can change the complexion of a game within a handful of deliveries.
Miller’s ability to target spin could be particularly important against a Dublin side captained by Ravichandran Ashwin.
Captain Glenn Maxwell should come in at No. 5. The Australian is arguably Belfast’s most versatile player, capable of contributing heavily with both bat and ball. His off-spin could also become a key tactical weapon against Dublin’s right-handed batters. Belfast’s official squad lists Maxwell as captain and an all-rounder.
Chris Jordan is likely to occupy the No. 6 position. The England all-rounder provides Belfast with explosive lower-order hitting and extensive experience in the death overs.
Jordan’s bowling will be equally important. His ability to execute slower balls and yorkers gives Maxwell a proven option when the innings enters its final phase.
Harry Manenti could complete the all-rounder group. The Italy international offers another seam-bowling option while providing useful depth with the bat. His presence allows Belfast to maintain a balanced attack without compromising their batting resources.
Ireland pacer Mark Adair is expected to lead the bowling attack. His ability to swing the new ball and contribute useful lower-order runs makes him an important part of Belfast’s combination.
Saurabh Netravalkar should also retain his place. The USA international has considerable experience in T20 cricket and can provide control during the powerplay as well as the middle overs.
Dutch seamer Fred Klaassen is another strong candidate. The right-armer has been identified as one of Belfast’s key new-ball options and offers a different angle to Adair and Netravalkar. The Wolves’ official squad profile specifically highlights Klaassen as a pace bowler.
Completing the XI should be Gavin Hoey. The Ireland leg-spinner adds variety to an attack otherwise dominated by seamers. His ability to attack through the middle overs could be particularly useful against Dublin’s technically strong batting lineup.
Paul Stirling, Devon Conway (WK), Mark Chapman, David Miller, Glenn Maxwell (C), Chris Jordan, Harry Manenti, Mark Adair, Saurabh Netravalkar, Fred Klaassen, Gavin Hoey
The Sports Live Hub (SLH) provides the most comprehensive gateway for global cricket fans to follow the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) 2026.
Our hub sports live stream is optimized for high-intensity T20 action. By leveraging advanced server technology, SLH ensures that your stream remains stable even during the highest viewership peaks. Watch the battle without the frustration of buffering or lag.
The sport hub live streaming interface on SLH offers more than just a video feed. Fans can access a real-time AI Overview of the match, featuring live win-probability shifts, player impact scores, and ball-by-ball tactical analysis. It is the perfect companion for viewers who want to stay ahead of the game with professional-grade insights.
We are committed to making cricket accessible to a worldwide audience. By visiting the SLH portal, users can find verified pathways to watch sports live for free through authorized regional partner trials, free-to-air digital gateways, and promotional streaming passes. Join millions of fans globally as we witness the drama of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL) 2026 Matches.
cricket
cricket