England sealed a narrow 17.5 – 14.5 victory over Ireland in a thrilling two-day Test Match held across CYM BC and Clontarf BC in Dublin.

The return fixture saw high-quality performances from both sides, with momentum shifting multiple times across six intense sessions made up of pairs, triples, and singles.

The action opened at CYM BC with Pairs, where England edged ahead with a 3.5 – 2.5 session win. Notable performances came from Tom McGuinness and Ed Morris, who secured a dominant 27–9 win, and the duo of Sophie Tolchard and Sian Honnor, who registered a 19–15 victory.

In Session 2, the Triples were shared evenly, with both sides picking up two wins apiece. England’s women continued to impress with a 22–16 win led by Sophie Tolchard, Lorraine Kuhler and Sian Honnor, while Emily Kernick, Nicole Rogers and Amy Pharaoh also secured a solid 15–11 victory.

Ireland struck back strongly in Session 3 (Singles), claiming the session 4–2. Despite commanding performances from Amy Pharaoh (21–9) and Sam Tolchard (21–9), Ireland secured the overall day lead through consistent play across their men’s and women’s singles, with standout wins from Adam McKeown and Sophie McIntyre.

Day One Score:
England 7.5 – 8.5 Ireland

Clontarf BC hosted Day Two, and trailing by one point, England came out firing in Session 4 (Pairs), winning the session 4.5 – 1.5. Highlights included a dominant 21–6 display from Harry Goodwin and Sam Tolchard, and a composed 17–15 win from Nick Brett and Jamie Walker.

Momentum stayed with England in Session 5 (Triples), where they took control with a 3.5 – 0.5 session win. Sophie Tolchard, Lorraine Kuhler and Amy Pharaoh delivered an emphatic 29–9 result to extend the team’s advantage.

Ireland again showed their strength in the final Singles session, winning 4–2. England earned wins through Emily Kernick (21–9) and Sian Honnor (21–14), but Ireland fought back through consistent play across both men’s and women’s matches to finish the Test on a high.

Day Two Score:
England 10 – 6 Ireland

Final Score:
England 17.5 – 14.5 Ireland

See results in full here.

Following the Test Match, England Women’s Manager Sandy Hazell said:

“The test match was played in a competitive spirit and produced an excellent standard of play from both teams. England came away with a narrow victory, but the experience gained competing at this level will benefit all going forward.

“On behalf of Bowls England, we would like to thank the Irish Bowls Federation for organising the event. Particular thanks must go to CYM BC and Clontarf BC who were excellent hosts and made us all feel so very welcome. Irish hospitality at its best.”

The Test Match showcased elite-level play and great camaraderie, offering valuable preparation for future international competition.

The next International event of the year is the British Bowls Under 18 Series, taking place in Ayr, Scotland, from Sunday 20 to Monday 21 July. See our squad here.

The Aviva National Bowls Finals are just around the corner! Taking place from 13th to 31st August, the pinnacle event of the bowls calendar will see bowlers from across England competing fiercely to be crowned National Champions. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness more brilliant action and cheer on your favourite players.

Tickets are available from £5.50 for adults, and more information about the event can be found here.