Young’s five-for, Willey blitz power Dublin Guardians past Belfast Wolves

Dublin, 9 September 2026: Craig Young ripped through Belfast Wolves with a five-wicket haul before David Willey struck a rapid 44 as Dublin Guardians cruised to an eight-wicket victory in the European T20 Premier League match at Malahide on Wednesday.

After electing to bowl, the Guardians dismissed Belfast for 107 in 19.4 overs, with Young producing the decisive spell of 5 for 21 from four overs.

Belfast struggled to build momentum despite several batters making starts. Paul Stirling top-scored with 22 from 18 balls, while Harry Manenti contributed 24 from 21 and Mark Adair added 15.

The contest swung sharply in Dublin’s favour during the 10th over. Young removed Stirling before dismissing David Miller and captain Glenn Maxwell for ducks, leaving Belfast reeling at 62 for six.

Willey and Matt Hollard claimed two wickets each, while Josh Little picked up one. Ravichandran Ashwin went wicketless but applied further pressure, conceding only 13 runs from his four overs.

Chasing 108, Dublin lost James Vince for 16 but Willey ensured there would be no tension. The left-hander attacked from the outset, hitting three fours and four sixes in a 25-ball 44 that pushed the Guardians well ahead of the required rate.

Maxwell removed Willey with the score on 64, but Belfast could not force another opening.

Daryl Mitchell finished the chase in composed fashion, remaining unbeaten on 35 from 25 balls with four fours and a six. Harry Tector provided support with an unbeaten 14 as Dublin reached 111 for two in 14.3 overs.

The result gave the Guardians victory with 33 balls remaining and two valuable competition points.

Scores in brief:

Dublin Guardians won by eight wickets with 33 balls remaining

Belfast Wolves 107 in 19.4 overs (Harry Manenti 24, Paul Stirling 22; Craig Young 5-21, David Willey 2-24)

Dublin Guardians 111-2 in 14.3 overs (David Willey 44, Daryl Mitchell 35 not out; Saurabh Netravalkar 1-33, Glenn Maxwell 1-2)

Player of the match - Craig Young (Dublin Guardians)